Villa could be in for what will be a last-ditched attempt to bring Brighton midfielder Yves Bissouma, who is highly rated by manager Steven Gerrard.

The Villans have been busy all January, adding  Lucas Digne, Calum Chambers, Philippe Coutinho, Robin Olsen and youngster Kerr Smith to their side.

A signing in the holding midfield role has been high on Villa’s priority, and Bissouma, who now has only 18-months left on his contract, is considered Gerrard’s prime target.

Despite being big spenders, Villa refused to meet Brighton’s asking price of £37million, which saw them shift their interest to Juventus defensive midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur but the Uruguayan ended up joining Antonio Conte’s side on the deadline day.

Instead of looking for new targets, the club has reignited interest in the 25-year-old, who is also wanted at Manchester United as Ralf Ragnick looks to bolster his midfield.

Though the player is looking for an upgrade with a lot of clubs keen on getting his signature, a summer deal looks more likely than a deadline day transfer. 

Come summer, Bissouma will have only a year left on his contract, which would allow the clubs to force Brighton into selling him for a lower transfer fee.