Steven Gerrard questioned as Aston Villa ‘set sights’ on bold £38.5m transfer

Aston Villa are now preparing for their clash with Leicester City this weekend.

It has been a difficult start to the season for Steven Gerrard’s men, who have picked up just four points in their first six games.

Having been backed significantly over the summer, Steven Gerrard will be under pressure to perform, and even more so with Premier League clubs already beginning to sack their managers.

Scott Parker and Thomas Tuchel have already been axed, and Gerrard needs to lead a revival to avoid joining that list.

Here we round up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding Villa Park.

Santos links

Villa are being linked with a move for youngster Andrey Santos.

According to Jorge Nicola via Sport Witness, Villa have joined the race with Barcelona, Lyon and Newcastle United to sign the 18-year-old, who currently plays for Vasco da Gama.

Santos is a holding midfielder, and it’s reported Vasco da Gama have asked for a fee of £38.5million to sell the youngster.

Interestingly, the midfielder shares the same agent as Diego Carlos, and Villa chief Johan Lange has already dealt with him.

It will be interesting to see how this race develops over the coming weeks and months.

Gerrard concern

Gerrard has been questioned by former Tottenham boss Tim Sherwood for his ‘honesty’.

“When Stevie (Gerrard) came into the club I was really taken by him. He’s authentic, always speaks the truth and I’m surprised at the start they’ve made,” Sherwood told the Mirror.

“He’s honest in front of camera, almost too honest a times, it doesn’t pay to be too honest (with the media).

“But that’s the direction he wants to go, I did the same, always wore my heart on my sleeve. But it takes it toll in the end and you end up losing your job.

“He’s trying to take the pressure off the players, but you do that, the pressure will come to you.”