Aston Villa could strike gold this summer with a bargain swoop for Ipswich Town's Liam Gibbs.

What's the story?

According to reports in recent weeks, Villa have been one of the clubs named as keeping a track of Gibbs' situation with the Tractor Boys, and it appears that the Midlands club now have the perfect chance to make their move.

The Suffolk News have revealed that the 18-year-old starlet is set to depart Ipswich this summer after contract talks between the two parties broke down.

The report added: "It means Gibbs is now a free agent from this morning and Ipswich are set to only get a nominal compensation fee for their part in training him."

Forget Smith Rowe

While reports in recent days and weeks have linked Villa with a swoop for Arsenal starlet Emile Smith Rowe, Dean Smith's side may be better off abandoning on what at the moment looks to be a dead-end pursuit and instead target Gibbs.

Like Smith Rowe, the Ipswich teenager is predominantly a number ten, but has also shown some versatility by playing from the left, and he seems destined for a big future.

Portman Road academy chief Bryan Klug said: "He is a goalscorer and he is a goal creator. He has got a real talent and one thing now is this football club presents opportunities to people like that.

"He has got the talent, there is no doubt. He is one of the most talented people I have worked with. I would not rule out anything for Liam. I think he has got the potential to be a top player."

Rather than potentially wasting time going after a player in Smith Rowe, who Arsenal are adamant will not be sold as they look to tie up a new contract for him, Gibbs could be the kind of young, exciting signing who could make a real impression at Villa Park.

Also, the fact that the 18-year-old is a free agent and that Ipswich would only be due a "nominal compensation fee" makes him a hugely enticing transfer prospect from a financial sense as well.

Johan Lange could hit the Villa jackpot with a bargain move for Gibbs this summer.

Meanwhile, Villa are closing in on this big-money signing...