Aston Villa have identified Liverpool defender Joe Gomez as a potential summer transfer target. The 29-year-old England international has just 12 months remaining on his contract at Anfield, leaving his future uncertain.
Interest from Turkey and Italy
Turkish side Besiktas and Italian giants AC Milan have also been monitoring Gomez's situation in recent months. However, Milan are currently undergoing a significant overhaul of their senior management and technical staff, which may complicate any potential move.
Villa are yet to make an official approach, but it is understood that Gomez appeals to manager Unai Emery due to his versatility across the backline. If the price is right, the Midlands club could make a formal bid.
Villa's summer plans
Emery is looking to strengthen his squad ahead of their Champions League campaign, with additional depth required to cope with the increased fixture schedule. However, they may also face departures, with interest in £80m-rated England international Morgan Rogers.
According to sources, Villa are also admirers of Manchester City's James Trafford and Newcastle United's Harvey Barnes as they compile a list of potential targets.
Liverpool's defensive concerns
Liverpool can ill afford to lose another defender, but with only 12 months left on Gomez's deal, it may be the optimal time to cash in. The Reds are actively seeking a right-back option, as Conor Bradley faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a knee injury, and Jeremie Frimpong is better suited to an attacking role.
Gomez almost left for Crystal Palace last summer in a potential swap deal for Marc Guehi, and was previously discussed by Newcastle in negotiations over Anthony Gordon.
Liverpool's priority remains signing a winger, or possibly two, this summer. RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande and Paris St Germain's Bradley Barcola are high on their list of targets.
