Premier League transfer round-up: Everton make early signing as window re-opens
Philippe Coutinho is on his way to Aston Villa on a short-term loan deal, but Steven Gerrard still reportedly wants three more transfers before the end of the January window. Gerrard made no secret of his admiration for Coutinho in his press conference on Thursday.
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The 19-year-old has impressed with Bologna in Serie A and is reportedly the "favourite" to join Villa this month.
But Villa will have to stump up £15million to sign Hickey from the Serie A side this month.
They've also been linked with a move for Liverpool's Joe Gomez, although a deal to sign the 24-year-old is unlikely with Jurgen Klopp not willing to offload the defender.
Gerrard may have to look elsewhere for centre-back options with the Villa boss keen to find a replacement for Axel Tuanzebe.
Aaron Hickey is a top target for Aston Villa (Image: GETTY)
It is reported that Villa are also keen to bring in a defensive midfielder with Marvelous Nakamba out for the remainder of the season.
Aaron Ramsey has been touted as a possible target with Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri admitting the midfielder will leave this month.
Allegri said: "Ramsey, he returned today after we had given him a few days off to work, to train separately, in England. In any case, he's an outgoing player."
The 31-year-old has started just one game for Juventus this season having fallen down the pecking order.
But he's also struggled with injury issues while Villa will face competition for his signature from Newcastle and other clubs.