What Steven Gerrard wants to happen in Australia and truth behind Aaron Hickey transfer links

A huge summer of change is on the horizon for Aston Villa with Steven Gerrard at the helm. The club are fighting for a top-half finish for the first time since 2011 while, off the pitch, Villa's recruitment department are continuing to line up new additions. Here, Ashley Preece sits down with supporters to chew the Villa fat on a big week in terms of season-ticket updates and talk of academy players returning to Bodymoor Heath ahead of next season.

Yes, mate. Villa have learned of Arsenal's interest in him and want to step up talks with Bologna. Villa were quite relaxed about that situation but now feel they could be pipped to the signing. Interesting few weeks with that one. As for Kamara, the ball's in the player's court. Agent assessing his options. Atleti keen. Nothing new/closer with him to Villa, sorry.

Coutinho talks not happening until last week/end of season. Villa Park latest: North Stand plans released late July/early August; building work next year. Season ticket price hike inevitable given Purslow's comments: 'Need more revenue to sign best footballers'. Villa fans could well be forking out for PC's wages! Massive summer mate, I'm expecting big names. As for Beale, yeah, keep possession, stay disciplined out of possession. Man City and Liverpool best at owning ball and pitch.

They really have, haven't they, the academy lads, Archer the standout in the Championship, for sure. The striker will play a big part in pre-season and at the beginning of next season before a loan decision is made. A lot depends on if Villa can sign a new No.9. As for Milner, Gerrard made a telling comment a few weeks back re captaincy. 'I could bring in someone I know to do that role'. Interesting.

Yes, it will be a risk, every