Aston Villa transfer news: Gerrard wants £50m star who's 'got a little bit of everything'

Journalist Sami Mokbel can ‘certainly see’ why Aston Villa are interested in signing Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Yves Bissouma.

The Mali international has reportedly caught the eye of multiple Premier League sides after elevating his game to new heights on the south coast over the last couple of campaigns.

According to The Athletic, Villa ‘are indeed keen’ on signing Bissouma to bolster Steven Gerrard’s options in the middle of the park, but they are expected to face fierce competition for his signature.

The report states that Brighton are set to demand £50 million for their star performer, before also crediting English giants Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal with an interest.

Bissouma has entered the final 18 months of his current contract, though, leaving the Seagulls in a difficult position when it comes to making a decision over his future.

It’s believed that the 25-year-old has shown no indication that he’s set to commit his future to Brighton at this stage, meaning the Amex Stadium outfit could lose him on a free once his existing deal expires.

Therefore, an exit is likely to occur in the summer, and Mokbel has no problems understanding why Villa are in the queue for Bissouma’s signature.

Since arriving on English shores in July 2018, the defensive midfielder has established himself as one of the Premier League’s leading engine room enforcers.

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As per FBref.com, Bissouma ranks in the 94th percentile for tackles, 92nd for dribbles completed, 87th for clearances and pass completion and 86th for interceptions compared to players in his position over the last year.

In an exclusive interview