Aston Villa are facing strong competition in their reported pursuit of Northampton Town youngster Caleb Chukwuemeka as Rangers have registered an interest in his services, according to The Sunday Mirror [via Birmingham Live].

The Lowdown: Aston Villa still seeking quality additions

After Saturday's disappointing 3-2 loss away to promoted Watford, Villa manager Dean Smith may be seeking further additions to his squad in order to build the solid foundations for a successful campaign.

Their reported interest in 19-year-old Chukwuemeka suggest that they are looking at young stars who can break into the first team picture across the season, but their hopes of signing the teenager appear to face a significant obstacle judging by fresh reports.

The Latest: Rangers and Spurs also show interest in Chukwuemeka

Aston Villa’s pursuit Chukwuemeka could be hampered as Scottish champions Rangers are also keen on the Northampton prospect [The Sunday Mirror, via Birmingham Live].

His younger brother Carney Chukwuemeka is on the books at Villa Park, which may well be a key factor in his next move.

Tottenham Hotspur are also attracted to the prospect of bringing the 19-year-old to north London, with his contract at the Cobblers due to expire next summer.

The Verdict: Losing out on Chukwuemeka would be a bitter blow

Priding themselves on a reputation of moulding stars of the future into first-team regulars (e.g. Jack Grealish), losing out on Chukwuemeka to Rangers or Tottenham would come as a major disappointment to the Aston Villa hierarchy.

He enjoyed a breakthrough season in League One in 2020/21, registering three goal contributions in 28 appearances with two goals and an assist [Transfermarkt].

Moreover, his potential to become a clinical forward in the coming years is evident. In the English third-tier last term, Chukwuemeka got 71.4% of his shots on target [FB Ref]. This figure could well improve within an elite coaching setup.

Once labelled as ‘great’ by his former manager Keith Curle [Northampton Chronicle], Aston Villa should do all they can to fend off the increased competition for the 19-year-old.

In other news, these Aston Villa fans were thrilled with an update from the club