Aston Villa have opened talks with forward Cameron Archer over a new deal, according to Football Insider.

The Lowdown: Preece’s claim

Archer burst onto the first-team scene this season with a hat-trick on his first start in a 6-0 win over Barrow in the EFL Cup.

Reliable reporter Ashley Preece claimed that the 19-year-old is under contract until 2022 and expected Villa to assess his future in January.

However, it seems as if Johan Lange and the Villa hierarchy are taking action before then when it comes to the teenager who Dean Smith described as ‘really good’ in pre-season.

The Latest: Source shares update

According to Football Insider, who were informed by a Villa source, talks are underway between Lange and co with Archer over a new contract.

Villa hold Archer in high regard and are now working on agreeing on terms with the striker over a new deal.

The report even adds that Villa turned down offers for Archer in the summer window.

The Verdict: Good move

Villa appear to be building for the future with a number of Under-23 additions over the summer, but keeping hold of exciting talents who are already at Bodymoor Heath is just as important.

Archer has impressed in recent months and took his opportunity in the Carabao Cup, so hopefully, he’ll pen improved terms before the New Year and will be able to train alongside the likes of Ollie Watkins and Danny Ings.

Villa could then reap the rewards regarding Archer in years to come, but if they fail to keep him in the Midlands, it could come back to haunt them in the long run.

In other news: 'We're done', 'Was coming' - Villa source update has lots of fans talking.