Aston Villa dealt fresh Kalvin Phillips blow as Steven Gerrard focuses on striker signing

Aston Villa will be aiming for a strong finish to the season once they get out of the current international break.

Steven Gerrard’s men have endured a wobble of late, suffering back-to-back defeats, slipping off the pace as far as a top-half finish goes.

Whether a top half finish awaits or not, Villa will be desperate to finish the season on a high having improved significantly under Gerrard.

And while they prepare for a strong finish, we have taken a look at all the latest Villa transfer rumours.

Phillips setback

Villa could have their work cut out to sign summer target Kalvin Phillips.

Phillips has emerged as a prime target for the Midlands club ahead of the summer, but it seems Leeds United are not exactly going to be accommodating, having managed to give themselves a survival boost over the last week or so.

According to The Times, Leeds have ‘no intention’ of selling their star midfielder this summer, and Villa may find it difficult to complete the move regardless of the size of their offer.

Striker priority

Villa are said to be lining up potential moves for strikers this summer.

Football Insider report that the Lions are willing to field offers for Ollie Watkins, and that they are drawing up a shortlist of ‘A-list strikers’.

It seems Gerrard wants to significantly improve his front line ahead of next season, with Villa apparently willing to spend to make that happen.

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