With the Women’s World Cup over and the Super League re-start just weeks away, rumours are starting to ramp up as Carla Ward looks to further strengthen the defence following the signings of Lucy Parker and Anna Patten.

Women’s football account Soccerdonna are reporting that Villa are linked with a move for Australian defender, Charlotte Grant.

The 21-year-old defender who can play either right back or centre back currently plays in the Swedish league Damallsvenskan for Vittsjo GIK who she joined on a free after a successful loan last year.

She began her career in 2018 when she joined Adelaide United in her native Australia where she made 34 appearances until she departed in 2021 to join Damallsvenskan team FC Rosengad. The defender made 18 appearances and scored 1 goal before going out on loan to Vittsjo GIK where she would later sign permanently.

The Australian made her senior international debut in 2021 before she would then be required to fill in for the then-injured favourite Ellie Carpenter. Charlie has been capped 18 times for her national team scoring 1 goal so far. Her form earned her a call-up to the Women’s World Cup team where she would see herself as the backup to Carpenter for the Matilda’s in what would be the country’s most successful World Cup appearance.

This rumour has caused excitement within the fans, as the exciting young Aussie looks to have a bright future. Personally, I believe that she is too good for the Swedish league after watching a few of her performances for Australia including against England in which she scored her only goal to date.

In my opinion, this move would be good for both parties with Grant being able to further her career in a more fast-paced league with a higher level of competition. It would allow Villa to add further quality and depth to their back line. Hopefully, Villa and Carla Ward will be able to get this deal over the line.