Aston Villa double transfer swoop tipped as Steven Gerrard aims for 'next level'

Former Aston Villa defender Richard Dunne has highlighted James Tarkowski and Emmanuel Dennis as potential targets for Steven Gerrard this summer.

Tarkowski, 29, has already been linked with a move to Villa Park as he looks set to depart newly relegated Burnley as a free agent. However, the club would face competition from a number of Premier League rivals for the signature of the centre half, despite being named as 'early favourites' to complete a deal.

Dennis, 24, also suffered relegation with Watford this season and with ten goals and six assists throughout the season, could look to stay in the top flight of English football this summer.

Speaking to Bet 365, former Villa defender Dunne highlighted the two players as individuals that could 'benefit' a team such as Villa. He said: "I'm sure clubs will start looking at Tarkowski from Burnley and Dennis from Watford now they have gone down. They would benefit a few teams in Villa's area.

"They need another attacking player to give them more options up top and another central midfielder. They aren't crying out for someone in any position but they are looking for that next level of player to push them up the league, they have a decent strong squad."