Aston Villa saw a raft of new players join their ranks during the previous summer and winter transfer windows as the Midlands club had a rather eventful season that also saw Steven Gerrard get appointed as their new manager.

On the pitch, one figure that was a rather prominent in Villa's campaign was John McGinn.

With 35 Premier League appearances to his name, Matty Cash and Tyrone Mings were the only outfield players to play more minutes than the Scotsman last season.

In those appearances, McGinn showed how useful he can be in a defensive and attacking sense.

In terms of his attacking presence, no other Villa player racked up more shot-creating actions (96) than the midfielder, who also made more successful dribbles (41) than any of his teammates.

From a defensive point of view, the midfielder won more tackles (61) than any other player in Gerrard's squad, in addition to making 52 interceptions.

With all of this in mind, it's safe to say that the 27-year-old is a vital cog for the Villans.

Looking ahead to next term, one figure that has been linked with a move to Villa Park that could form formidable duo alongside McGinn is Conor Gallagher.

As a product of Chelsea's youth system, the midfielder spent the previous Premier League campaign on loan at Crystal Palace.

During his time with Patrick Vieira's side the Englishman scored eight goals and delivered three assists in 34 league games.

In fact, his second goal against West Ham United in August was described as "outrageous" by Palace podcaster Dan Cook.

As well as his goals and assists, only Wilfried Zaha (104) produced more shot-creating actions than the Gallagher (89).

From a defensive point of view, only Tyrick Mitchell (187) ended the season with a higher combined total of tackles and interceptions in the league than the 22-year-old (112).

Taking all of this into account, it's safe to say that having both McGinn and Gallagher in the same side as two well-rounded midfielders who are capable of going forward and defending their own goal, would be a massive asset for Villa as a team.

Despite having a rather hefty reported price tag of £50m, this would be a great reason for NSWE to get the chequebook out once again and give Gerrard a great tool to help push the team and the club forward.

AND in other news: Reliable journo: AVFC move would be "attractive" for 6ft1 "rock", Gerrard will love it