Steven Gerrard makes Aston Villa contract admission amid fresh £34m alternative striker ‘boost’

Aston Villa are already looking stronger ahead of the new season thanks to a number of new signings.

The club are keen to improve on their 14th place finish from last season, and they have proven that intent with their investment this summer.

The likes of Philippe Coutinho, Diego Carlos and Boubacar Kamara have all been landed, while Ludwig Augustinsson is the latest to be snapped up, joining on a loan deal.

Villa have been bold in their attempts to strengthen, and they may not be done there, with Steven Gerrard still said to be keen to strengthen key areas.

With that in mind, we have rounded up all the latest transfer news and rumours surrounding Villa Park:

Chukwuemeka update

Villa star Carney Chukwuemeka continues to face an uncertain future amid his contract situation.

The talented youngster is only tied down until next year, and he is attracting plenty of interest due to not yet accepting a new deal, with Arsenal said to be the latest to express an interest.

As a result, he has been left out of Villa’s pre-season trip to Australia with Gerrard explaining the situation.

“Carney is yet to sign a contract offer that has been in place for some time,” said the Villa boss. “I’ve decided the best thing would be to continue his training programme back at Bodymoor.”

Watkins boost

West Ham United were being linked with a move for Villa striker Ollie Watkins this summer.

But it seems the Hammers will now look elsewhere after Gerrard made it clear the striker is ‘going nowhere’ this summer.

According to The Guardian West Ham are now chasing a deal for Sassuolo striker Gianluca Scamacca, with a bid of £34million in the offing.

Good news for Villa, with Watkins set to stay put this summer.