Aston Villa are understood to be tracking Fiorentina midfielder Cher Ndour as they consider midfield reinforcements. The 21-year-old has drawn attention with a series of mature and physically commanding displays in Italy's top flight.
Liverpool are also reported to view the player as an athletic, long-term addition to their squad. Villa manager Unai Emery and his recruitment team believe Ndour's dynamism could offer a different option in the centre of the park.
Midfield considerations
Any potential move would come as Villa seek to address a difficult start to the Premier League season. The club currently sit 19th with just one point from their opening four matches, having conceded seven goals. Their next test is a trip to face Tottenham on 19 September.
The club's injury list includes midfielders Amadou Onana and Leon Goretzka, which may influence their thinking in the market.
Ndour, who is under contract with Fiorentina, has emerged as a regular starter this term. His combative style and ability to break up play have been noted by scouts from several English clubs. No formal approach has been made by Villa at this stage, and any deal would likely require a significant fee.
Villa's most recent outing was a 2-1 home defeat to Nottingham Forest, where Alysson scored a 74th-minute equaliser before a late winner for the visitors. The team's fixtures show a challenging run of games ahead as they look to climb the table.
