Now that the January transfer window has opened, this has set off a flurry of transfer rumours and reports linking numerous players with moves to a range of different clubs.

One club that have been linked with a potential transfer deal in the near future is Aston Villa, who could be set to allow manager Steven Gerrard to make some changes to his squad.

What's the word?

According to a recent report from The Sun by journalist Alan Nixon, Villa are interested in signing Burnley winger Dwight McNeil as well as fellow Premier League clubs Everton and Crystal Palace.

Since joining Burnley's U18 side back in 2014 from Manchester United's youth system, the 22-year-old has gone on to make a total of 127 senior appearances for the Clarets across all competitions, scoring seven goals and providing 17 assists in the process.

In terms of a potential move to Villa, either in the current January transfer window or the next summer window, the report claims that the Midlands club would have to "shift some of their squad for a bid to happen."

Forget El Ghazi

With this in mind, it could be a good time for Villa to get rid of current winger Anwar El Ghazi, who has been linked with a move away from the club in recent weeks, given how he's only made three substitute appearances for Villa since Gerrard's first game in charge against Brighton & Hove Albion back in November.

Taking this into account, getting rid of the Dutch forward could be the first step towards signing McNeil, which would surely be very pleasing for Gerrard given how the Burnley winger has managed to rack up more shots, key passes and dribbles per game than El Ghazi has in the Premier League this season, highlighting his attacking talents.

Depending on what happens with Villa's current attacking players this month such as El Ghazi or anyone else, there could be an opportunity for the Midlands club to secure a move for McNeil and get him into Gerrard's squad.

However, with Burnley currently sitting in the relegation zone, it could be easier for Villa to sign McNeil in the summer if Sean Dyche's side aren't able to avoid the drop by the end of the campaign. Either way, Gerrard would surely be delighted to welcome him.

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