"I'm sure" - Journalist drops major claim on Steven Gerrard transfer plans at Aston Villa

Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard is set to be ambitious in the summer transfer window and look to splash the cash in order to improve his Villa Park squad, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Gerrard was appointed as the Midlands club’s head coach in November, replacing the sacked Dean Smith, but a 1-0 defeat to Arsenal has seemingly ended their hopes of a late push for a European spot.

According to The Times, Villa have emerged as the frontrunners to prise Kalvin Phillips away from Leeds United.

The report suggests Gerrard has identified the central midfielder as a key target and is willing to part with £60million, along with a lucrative salary, in order to win the race for the 19-cap England international.

Gerrard has also revealed he is keen to sign Philippe Coutinho on a permanent basis from La Liga giants Barcelona.

It comes after the Brazilian playmaker headed to Villa Park on an initial loan deal during the winter window, but the agreement includes the option of Coutinho remaining in the Midlands for £33million.

Luis Suarez is reportedly keen to remain in Europe and would consider a return to the Premier League with Villa ahead of his Atletico Madrid contract expiring in the summer, while Liverpool central defender Joe Gomez is understood to have been made a priority signing.

Aston Villa 0-1 Arsenal: Full reaction on The Football Terrace

O’Rourke reckons Gerrard will not be frightened to spend big in order to bolster his options at Villa.

The journalist thinks the 41-year-old has already shown he means business as he looks to turn the Midlands club into regular European qualification contenders.

O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “We know Gerrard is a very ambitious manager and signed the likes of Philippe Coutinho and