Aston Villa will be “seriously thinking” about making a bid for Rangers winger Ryan Kent if his contract situation is not resolved before the transfer window shuts, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Ex-Gers boss Steven Gerrard is known to be a big fan of his former player, and O’Rourke claims the Villans would be in the mix for Kent’s signature if he is made available for transfer:

“If they’re unable to agree a new contract and he does become available, I’m sure Steven Gerrard and Aston Villa will be one of the clubs who will be seriously thinking of offering him a move back to the Premier League.”

Kent is known to have a £20m release clause in his contract but, due to the fact that his current deal expires next year, Rangers would have to accept an offer substantially below that amount this summer to prevent him from leaving on a free.

There has been no sign that the former Liverpool star is close to putting pen to paper on an extension, but we have seen examples in recent months (e.g Connor Goldson and James Tavernier) where these announcements can come out of the blue.

Fans will be hoping Kent is not tempted by potential offers south of the border and that he commits his long-term future to the Light Blues.