Aston Villa ‘one step closer’ to landing big-money defender as Tottenham ‘eye’ midfielder

Aston Villa are not hanging around ahead of the summer transfer window opening.

We are still more than two weeks away from the window opening, but Steven Gerrard knows what he wants, and he is out to get it.

Villa have already tied Philippe Coutinho down to a permanent deal, while Boubacar Kamara will join at the end of his Marseille contract.

The Lions’ bid for improvement will not end there, and more signings are expected between now and the end of the summer window.

Villa want to improve significantly on their 14th place finish this season, and they know a number of new faces will be required.

With that in mind, we have rounded up all the latest transfer news and rumours.

Diego Carlos talks

Sevilla star Diego Carlos looks set to be Gerrard’s next biggest target, and it seems talks are progressing.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Carlos’ agent has now made the trip to Seville to meet with his client and put Villa’s offer to him.

Villa are said to have made an offer worth £42.5million as they look to improve their back-line, and it will now be up to the Brazilian whether he pushes for a move.

Sevilla are said to be willing to sell for that price, so it could come down to whether Villa can strike a deal with the player in the coming days.

McGinn exit links

Tottenham are said to be considering a move for Villa midfielder John McGinn.

The Scotland international has been heavily linked with an exit in the past, but he has stuck around to enjoy another fine season at Villa Park.

McGinn is now being linked with an exit again ahead of this summer, and Fichajes claim Spurs are interested as they prepare for a Chamions League campaign, with Antonio Conte said to be keen to improve his midfield.