Aston Villa sold Kaine Kesler-Hayden to Coventry City.
Kaine Kesler Hayden cited the project and geography as the key reasons for his move to Coventry City, with Middlesbrough also reportedly interested in signing him. Kesler-Hayden is believed to have been a Boro target this summer as the club sought to enhance Rob Edwards’ options on the right side of defence following the release of Anfernee Dijksteel.
Boro, like always, had contingency plans in place and promptly went forward with their recruitment plans, fully aware that obtaining Kesler-Hayden would be difficult.
Aston Villa wanted to sell the academy graduate quickly after he impressed on loan at Plymouth Argyle and Preston North End. In the end, the Midlands native preferred the move to Coventry, and a £3.5 million transaction was completed on Tuesday. Southampton were rumored to be interested in addition to Boro.
In his first club interview, Kesler-Hayden stated, “I’m absolutely buzzing to be here.” It seemed like the ideal relocation for me. There were many factors that influenced his decision. The project – I witnessed last season what a terrific team Coventry is, and they were extremely unlucky not to make it to Premier League. I hope we can accomplish it again this season.
“It’s also pretty close to where I live, which is ideal. I don’t have to travel too far. It feels like the right time in my career [to leave Aston Villa permanently]. After a lot of loans in recent seasons, it felt like the proper moment to take the next move.
“I spoke with the gaffer, and he played an important role in my decision to sign. I believe in the initiative, and he gave me several films, analyses, and other materials to help me understand how I fit in with the team. It felt like the perfect place for me to visit. I can’t wait to get started!”
Boro are looking to reinforce at centre-back, centre-midfield, wide forward, and up forward as they quickly transition to alternate right-back/wing-back alternatives. Edwards has already met with head of football Kieran Scott to discuss recruitment intentions and the type of player required in each position. Left wing-back is less of a priority, but if Luton star Alfie Doughty becomes available for a reasonable fee this summer, Boro would be interested in making a bid.
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