ASTON VILLA are in shock talks to sign £16million Juventus star Rodrigo Bentacur, according to reports.
Steven Gerrard is looking to bolster his midfield options despite already signing former Liverpool team-mate Philippe Coutinho on loan.
And according to Marca, Bentancur is the man Gerrard wants to provide some competition in the middle of the park.
However, the Uruguayan has played 25 times for the Old Lady this season and it is unclear whether they’d be willing to part ways with the midfielder.
The futures of Aaron Ramsey and Arthur could also play a part on whether Bentancur stays in Turin or makes the move to the Midlands.
Juve boss Massimiliano Allegri confirmed Ramsey is likely to leave the club in the final weeks of the winter transfer window.
The likes of Arsenal, Newcastle, Everton and Wolves have all been linked with a move for the Wales international.
Allegri has, however, issued a hands off warning on Arthur, who he sees as an ‘important’ player for the club.
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The Italian’s stance on Arthur’s future comes as a blow to Arsenal, who are struggling to make up numbers in midfield.
Both Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey will miss Sunday’s game against relegation strugglers Burnley through suspension.
Gerrard could also be looking to bring another midfielder in with Manchester United watching his star midfielder John McGinn.
The Scotland international is reportedly on a four-man midfielder shortlist alongside Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham, Leeds’ Kalvin Phillips and West Ham captain Declan Rice.
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