Atletico Madrid identify Luis Suarez replacement amid Aston Villa transfer links

In recent weeks, Aston Villa have been linked with a potential move for Steven Gerrard's former Liverpool teammate Luis Suarez.

Suarez has reportedly had offers to join the likes of Palmeiras, Corinthians and many others but Villa also emerged as an option on account of his links to Gerrard.

While the move looks unlikely to materialise before the January transfer window closes, if it did come to fruition, it would be completed this summer, when is current contract at Atletico Madrid expires.

Rumours have since intensified after AS reported Atletico were already pursuing a replacement for Suarez, in the form of Lucas Boye.

The report states the Elche forward would be a direct replacement for Suarez and the player has a £21million release clause, which increases the likelihood of a deal being completed.

It appears increasingly more likely that Suarez has no future in La Liga, which can only strengthen Gerrard and Villa's chances of signing the striker with 69 Premier League goals to his name.

Villa currently have Danny Ings and Ollie Watkins battling for a starting role at the club. Adding Suarez to this mix of finishing talent could elevate both of their games to new heights. Another aspect that cannot be underestimated is the winning mentality he would bring to the club, which Gerrard is so keen to install into his team.

Suarez has six league titles to his name as well as a Champions League winners medal and several individual honours. If he was to sign for Villa, his benefit could be felt both on and off the pitch for the club.