Journalist: Aston Villa want two more signings, name drops Premier League star and £20m-rated midfielder

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Express journalist Ryan Taylor claims that Aston Villa want two more signings before the deadline – a centre-back and a central midfielder. Taylor names Yves Bissouma and Rodrigo Bentancur as midfield targets.

Villa have already enjoyed a successful January window, Steven Gerrard’s first window as Villa gaffer. Philippe Coutinho has joined on a loan-to-buy basis, while Robin Olsen and Lucas Digne have also arrived at Villa Park.

But Gerrard is not seemingly done there and it is believed he is keen on a centre-back and a central midfielder. Axel Tuanzebe has cancelled his loan at the halfway stage, joining Serie A club Napoli until the summer.

In midfield, Marvelous Nakamba could be sidelined until April and cover is needed – with Brighton’s Bissouma and Juventus ace Bentancur on the agenda. Taylor said Villa want to make two signings before the deadline.

“I understand two more signings are on the agenda. One being a centre-back, one that can provide competition for Tyrone Mings and Ezri Konsa. Central midfield. Yves Bissouma – there has been dialogue with Brighton

“Brighton have made it clear they are not interested in selling, but he does have 18 months left. Rodrigo Bentancur is of huge interest, it is believed he would cost around £20million. Juventus don’t want to weaken their squad.”

Taylor on two more signings: Bentancur or Bissouma for Villa?

Bissouma has been linked with some of England’s biggest clubs. So, a move to Villa would be an enormous coup for the Midlands club with Gerrard building a side capable of finishing – or challenging – for the top eight.

But with some outlets suggesting Brighton want £50million or more for Bissouma, he is surely not worth it. Especially when, a player such as Bentancur is a bargain at just £20million. The Juventus ace is a top player.

Superb on the ball, but also proven at Champions League level – Bentancur already has 45 caps for Uruguay. If they can get the Juve ace and cover at centre-back, it is the perfect January window for Gerrard and Villa.