Aston Villa are set to loan out prized starlet Jaden Philogene-Bidace and we understand Stoke City are set to win the race to land him.
The 19-year-old midfielder is considered one of the best prospects in the Premier League. Steven Gerrard had been considering whether to introduce him into his squad for the remainder of the season.
But with Philippe Coutinho’s recent arrival, he is now able to consider a loan for the creative teenager.
It is understood Gerrard himself has been studying the options, which are plentiful. Almost every promotion-chasing team in the Championship has registered their interest in taking the player. There were also clubs in Belgium and France keen to take him.
However, we understand that Stoke have emerged as the most likely landing spot, with Gerrard impressed by Michael O’Neill and his plans.
Gerrard also likes O’Neill’s work with a number of younger players. Therefore, he is ready to let one of his prized assets move to the Bet365 Stadium for the remainder of the campaign.
Stoke are currently eighth in the Championship table, hoping to break into the play-off spots.
Jaden Philogene-Bidace already has five senior appearances to his name for Villa – all but one coming this season – and has contributed two assists. He has only played four minutes in the Premier League so far, though.
Therefore, a loan in the division below should allow him to express his talents.
Villa have him under contract until 2024 but see his short-term future in the second tier.
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Meanwhile, reports in Spain claim Luis Suarez has rejected three further offers because he only wants a reunion with Steven Gerrard and Philippe Coutinho at Aston Villa.
According to Spanish journalist Gerard Romero, Gerrard is planning another shock move for a second former Liverpool colleague.
This time, he wants Suarez, who combined to deadly…
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