Aston Villa are reportedly not set to make a move for PSV Eindhoven midfielder Ibrahim Sangare, despite persistent links to the Ivorian in recent weeks.

What's the word?

That's according to transfer insider Dean Jones - speaking to GIVEMESPORT - who suggested that the 24-year-old may not be the most suitable option due to his usual role as a holding midfielder, with Villa boss Steven Gerrard said to be chasing more of a 'number eight' to add to his squad.

The reliable source stated: "They’re looking for an eight. I can’t claim to have seen loads of Sangare but I’m not sure that he’s an eight as such. I think he’s more of a six. So I’m not sure that he’s the exact type of fit that I’ve heard Gerrard is looking for.”

The former Toulouse man - who made the move to Holland two years ago - had been rumoured to be a possible target for the Midlands side this summer, with Gerrard and co chasing a further midfield addition, despite having already signed Boubacar Kamara.

Sangare is also reportedly the subject of interest from fellow Premier League sides Chelsea and Manchester United, while Leicester City are also believed to have him on their radar.

Supporters gutted

That could well come as a real blow to the Villa Park faithful, with supporters set to be gutted if the club does decide against signing such an impressive and imperious talent who would no doubt have been a real quality addition to the current squad.

Likened to Manchester City legend and compatriot Yaya Toure, as well as former Stamford Bridge powerhouse Michael Essien, the 24-cap titan is clearly a player who would thrive in English football, with it set to be a notable mistake were the Villans not to pursue a move.

The 6 foot 3 colossus - who Gerrard is believed to have scouted during PSV's Europa Conference League clash with Leicester last term - would reportedly cost in the region of just £30m, an absolute steal for a player who has been in stunning form in the Eredivisie in recent times.

The 2021/22 campaign saw the commanding, £27k-per-week giant net two goals and provide three assists in 29 league outings, while also averaging a remarkable 3.3 tackles and 2.6 interceptions per game.

A destructive, ball-winning presence in the centre of the park, just like Yaya was, Sangare has already begun this season in similarly strong form, recording seven tackles and three interceptions in the recent Dutch Super Cup victory over rivals Ajax.

With just a few weeks left before the transfer window closes, it remains to be seen if the imposing ace is snapped up by any of his long list of suitors, although if the aforementioned Jones is correct, then Villa supporters won't be seeing him in a claret and blue jersey any time soon.

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