Aston Villa star's future 'under discussion', Steven Gerrard eyeing his former clubs for 'ambitious' signings

Aston Villa have exceeded a lot of expectations so far this season as they currently find themselves chasing down Premier League leaders Liverpool. With 42 points on the board, the Villans are ahead of Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, having pulled off wins over all three teams so far this campaign.

With one eye on the remaining games left, the other is on the January transfer window and the interest being shown in some of their most important players. Villa will need all their firepower to keep this momentum going but that hasn't stopped clubs from peering through the window at the talent on display. Here's a look at some of the latest transfer rumours linked with Unai Emery's side.

Steven Gerrard eyeing 'ambitious' swoop

Former Villa boss Steven Gerrard is facing a lot of pressure out in Saudi Arabia right now, as his side are struggling for form and marquee signing Jordan Henderson has expressed his desire to leave. According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Al-Ettifaq are 'exploring a range of ambitious options' for both this window and the summer.

Gerrard has his eye on both Liverpool and Villa, with centre-backs Joël Matip and Joe Gomez from the Reds reportedly on his radar. Villa's Betrand Traore is another name that has been 'discussed' within the club as they consider players who can improve their disappointing season so far.

Villa star's 'future under discussion'

Philippe Coutinho has not had the best luck in recent years, going from one of the world's most sought-after playmakers to a man struggling to find his place anywhere he goes. The Brazilian joined Villa in 2022 after an initial loan spell but he has found it difficult to secure a regular place in the senior team.

Back in September, Coutinho was sent out on loan to Qatar club Al-Duhail for the season, and so far he has tallied five goal contributions in nine games. However, UOL has reported that the 31-year-old's future is now 'under discussion', but a break in his loan agreement will come with a hefty €25 million (£21.5m) charge for whoever makes the decision.