Aston Villa have become the latest club to be interested in Manchester United’s Paddy McNair, according to the Mirror.
They report that the Championship side see the 21-year-old as a possible loan signing to add to their defensive depth ahead of the new season, with Ciaran Clark set to join Newcastle United in a £5 million move.
McNair rose to prominence during former United manager Louis van Gaal’s first season at the club, making 18 appearances in all competitions as he filled in during a defensive injury crisis.
However, his opportunities were limited last season due to injury and other factors, only making nine appearances in all competitions. Despite this, he still made the Northern Ireland squad for Euro 2016, impressing in a central midfield role as Michael O’Neill’s men bowed out to Wales in the round of 16.
But with José Mourinho looking to strengthen his defensive options, McNair – who can play in the centre of defence as well as further forward – has been made surplus to requirements at Old Trafford this season and the Portuguese manager is happy for the Northern Ireland international to head out on loan.
Burnley, Celtic and Newcastle have also expressed an interest in signing the 21-year-old, with Sean Dyche’s side almost signing McNair on loan in January – but Burnley were unable to reach an agreement with the Reds back then.
