West Midlands rivals Aston Villa and West Bromwich Albion could be set for a head-to-head battle off the pitch, as both clubs eye a move for Rangers' highly-rated teenage prospect Bailey Rice.
Midlands Giants Eye Bargain Talent
Despite their contrasting fortunes this season, the two clubs are reportedly aligned in their interest in the 19-year-old defensive midfielder. Aston Villa have surged into the Premier League's top four under Unai Emery, while West Bromwich Albion are pushing for the Championship play-offs under new boss Ryan Mason.
According to reports, Rice is set to leave Scottish giants Rangers as a free agent when his contract expires on June 30, 2026. Having failed to agree terms on a new deal, a queue of interested clubs is forming, with Villa, West Brom, Sunderland, and Cardiff City all stated to have checked on the player's situation.
Who is Bailey Rice?
Bailey Rice is a player with a notable pedigree. He made history by becoming the youngest post-war player to feature for Rangers in the league, making his debut aged just 16 years and 137 days in February 2023.
His potential has been recognised for years, with Premier League sides Manchester City and Brighton showing interest during his time in the Motherwell academy before his move to Ibrox in 2022. From January 1, 2026, Rice will be free to sign a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside Scotland, and it is claimed West Brom and Cardiff are already prepared to move.
Player's Ambition Could Prompt Exit
In a press conference in May, Rice expressed a strong desire to fight for his place at the club he supports. However, with first-team opportunities remaining limited this season, a departure appears increasingly likely.
"You don't want to just be a squad player or a bench player, you want to be playing, especially for this club I have supported my whole life," Rice said. "It is a dream every time that I play and hopefully I can take that into next season and see where it goes."
This stated ambition for regular football is a key factor driving the transfer speculation, with both Villa and West Brom potentially able to offer a clearer pathway to first-team action.
The coming winter transfer window will be crucial, as clubs look to secure a bargain deal for one of Scotland's most promising young talents ahead of his contract expiry. Whether Aston Villa will formally enter the race to match their local rivals' interest remains a key question for the months ahead.
