By Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

1st Sep, 2023 | 5:16pm

Sources: Aston Villa star Zych agrees to join Puszcza Niepolomice

Aston Villa goalkeeper Oliwier Zych is joining Polish club Puszcza Niepolomice on loan, sources have told Football Insider.

The 19-year-old shot-stopper is highly regarded at Villa and they feel a loan back to his homeland is an ideal next step in his development plan.

It is understood that he has agreed terms with Puszcza Niepolomice and the deal is expected to be finalised and announced before the transfer cut-off.

Zych is yet to make his senior debut for Aston Villa since joining the Premier League club in 2020.

He signed for Villa from Polish outfit Zaglebie Lubin after impressing scouts with his performances in goal.

During his time at Villa Park, Zych was involved with the squad that won the FA Youth Cup in 2021, keeping a clean sheet on his one appearance during the cup run. 

His impressive performances at youth level also earned him an international call-up, with Zych having featured in Poland’s Under-15s and Under-16s squads.

Villa are currently well-stacked in the goalkeeping department, with World Cup-winner Emiliano Martinez currently the first-choice at the club.

Veteran goalkeeper Robin Olsen provides depth for Unai Emery’s squad, leaving little space for Zych to compete for a starting spot even in cup competitions.

However, Zych remains a promising prospect at Villa and the club’s coaches wanted to keep hold of him and loan him out to gain experience rather than sell him on a permanent basis.

In other news, Aston Villa star Jaden Philogene agrees deadline day deal with Hull City