Tottenham's next Rafael van der Vaart can give Antonio Conte what he needs amid transfer links

John McGinn is one of the reported potential targets for Tottenham, as the summer transfer window looms. In his 33 Premier League appearances for Aston Villa so far this season, McGinn has scored three goals and registered as many assists.

Steven Gerrard was full of praise for his midfielder earlier this year and his comments indicate that he would be loathe to let the 27-year-old move elsewhere. "There’s not many better people than John McGinn," the Villa boss admitted.

"I’ve been in the game an awfully long time and he is a really infectious character who is great for the group, on and off the pitch. John is the glue to everything that’s good at Aston Villa."

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Earlier this month, the midfielder admitted that he has been "a lot more professional over the last 12 months, trying to become the best athlete I can be" and if the Scottish international is going to be on Fabio Paratici's radar, Spurs could have a lot to offer. Not only the great location of London, world-class facilities and stadium, but also a world-class manager.

McGinn won't be getting European football with Villa next season, with his current side sitting 14th in the Premier League, with just one game to go. However, Spurs are effectively just one point away from securing Champions League football for next season.

This would mean the midfielder could come to a club which already has some quality players, with hopefully more to be bought in the summer, a manager who has already made such a difference in a short amount of time and hopefully entry into the top European competition.

McGinn clearly has a good relationship with his current boss, which his previous