Steven Gerrard targets Rangers star after Aston Villa secure second summer transfer

Aston Villa's season had barely ended at Manchester City on Sunday when boss Steven Gerrard already started discussing his plans for next season and his hopes for signings.

Gerrard hinted post match a deal was close and today Aston Villa have already confirmed one signing ahead of a busy summer window. Gerrard is looking to strengthen the spine of his side with a new striker, midfielder and defender on his wish list using funds from the club's wealthy billionaire owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens.

And he can already cross buying a holding midfielder off his list after making an early move to strengthen the key position which was underlined by Marvelous Nakamba's injury.

Villa have confirmed the singing of Boubacar Kamara on a five-year contract after he left Marseille on a free transfer.

The 22-year-old, who has just won his first call-up to the France national team after a fantastic season, will join Villa following the expiry of his contract with the French club.

Kamara came through the youth ranks at Marseille and played a key role in this season’s Ligue 1 campaign for the runners-up, who also enjoyed a run to the Europa League semi-finals. Gerrard said: “I am delighted that we have been able to attract one of the most promising young talents in European football. We have a very clear plan to make our team stronger and Bouba is an important part of that.”

Kamara said: “When I met with Steven, Christian (Purslow, the CEO) and Johan (Lange, sporting director) in my home I knew Aston Villa was for me. Their ambition and determination to succeed matches my own. I cannot wait for pre-season to get going.”

Villa are one of several Premier League clubs to be linked with VfL Wolfsburg stopper Maxence Lacroix, aged 22.