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Aston Villa should offer Ben Arfa a route back to the Premier League
Aston Villa are currently preparing for their first Premier League campaign since 2016, having earned promotion from the Championship last season. Dean Smith will be keen to bolster his squad this summer. He has already made a strong start, by bringing the likes of Tyrone Mings, Matt Targett, Jota and Wesley, amongst others, to Villa Park.
However, more additions will likely be needed if the Villans are to survive and thrive in the top flight. One area where Smith could do with some additional options is in attacking midfield. Jack Grealish is a talismanic figure for the Midlands club. However, Smith can’t afford to be over-reliant on the 23-year-old No. 10.
For that reason, the Villa boss should look to bring in an affordable alternative. Someone who can compete with Grealish for a first team place and also provide the squad with additional strength in depth. One target Smith should consider is Hatem Ben Arfa. The 32-year-old is currently a free agent, having been released by Stade Rennais earlier this summer.
The former Newcastle man has previous Premier League experience and possesses a great deal of technical quality. He is capable of producing moments of magic. He could certainly have a positive impact for Villa over the course of the season. As a free agent, he also represents a cost-effective acquisition.
If the club and Ben Arfa could agree fair terms then he’d be a smart acquisition for Villa to make this summer.