Why Gerrard pulled Villa out of transfer race for Bissouma

Steven Gerrard was keen to sign a defensive midfielder this summer to replace Morgan Sanson and add competition for Marvelous Nakamba, but it doesn’t appear Aston Villa are going to pursue Kalvin Phillips or Yves Bissouma now.

Gregg Evans of The Athletic believes Villa have been priced out of agreeing a deal, so Gerrard will stick with Boubacar Kamara and Nakamba fighting for a starting place in front of the back four.

Leeds United were requesting £50m for Phillips while Brighton & Hove Albion wanted £50m for Bissouma, so the Midlands outfit will now turn their attentions elsewhere.

Villa still need a left-back if Matt Targett leaves and a striker if Danny Ings leaves, but Gerrard may not strengthen his midfield anymore. Supporters may be disappointed that a big-name midfielder won’t be coming to Villa Park, but it’s easy to forget how quickly the club have moved in the transfer market this summer.

Phillipe Coutinho, Kamara, Diego Carlos and Robin Olsen were all signed permanently by Villa and will hope for a better season than the last.

In other news, Paul Robinson gives Aston Villa hope in their pursuit of Calvin Bassey