Football News

John McGinn’s value has “shot up” – but Villa are not interested in sale, insists Dean Smith

By Mohamed Moallim

Published: 15:43, 20 October 2019 | Updated: 11:47, 25 February 2020

Aston Villa boss Dean Smith says John McGinn is not for sale, despite his transfer value rocketing in recent weeks.

The 25-year-old Scotland midfielder has played a pivotal role in newly-promoted Villa’s impressive start to the season, which sees the club sitting six points below the Champions League places after nine Premier League matches played.

McGinn’s ascent: Five key things to know…

  • McGinn has been ever-present for Aston Villa in the Premier League this season.
  • He’s played in every single minute of Villa’s campaign so far.
  • McGinn has registered three goals and one assist, including strikes against Spurs and Arsenal.
  • He’s been linked with a January move to Manchester United.
  • Villa boss Smith says any bid for the Scotlandmidfielder will be swiftly rejected.

https://audioboom.com/posts/7399272

McGinn, who joined the Birmingham-based club from Hibernian in August 2018, has been ever-present this season and registered three goals in the process.

As a consequence of his performances, McGinn has been linked with a move away from Villa Park, with Manchester United being reported as a potential destination, but his present deal expires in June 2024 after he signed an extension this summer.

Subscribe to Squawka’s Youtube channel here.

Smith, who has lavished praise on McGinn for his recent outings, is not contemplating a departure and has made it known what any interested parties will hear if they submit a bid.

“The big clubs can come calling but they’ll get a short, swift reply.” he said.

“He’s a player we want here at Aston Villa. His value shot up from the moment he stepped out onto the Villa Park pitch and showed just what a player he is.

“He has an unbelievable energy level and a big, big heart, but people don’t see the technical side of it as well – he’s got that in abundance.”