Steven Gerrard is plotting a move for Sunderland's Dan Neil after scouts were left 'raving' about the youngster
The latest reports, claim Aston Villa have joined Burnley in the race to sign the Black Cats academy graduate.
Neil has enjoyed a stellar breakthrough season at the Stadium of Light, racking up 32 appearances and three goals in all competitions.
The report claims Villa are keen on making the 20-year-old their next signing, with the cash to sign the youngster, while Burnley view Neil as a long-term project.
Gerrard reportedly has the upper hand on the Clarets, sharing the same agency as the Sunderland midfielder.
An approach for the Black Cats youngster would surely test their resolve, despite Kristjaan Speakman's comments earlier in the window.
He said: "We don't need to lose anybody right now.
"The whole purpose of the project is to build those assets and develop that strength in depth, and there's nothing better than having teams interested in your players because that does suggest that good things are occurring.
"But we won't be entertaining any of those players leaving in the window, they are motivated by Sunderland getting to where we want to get to at the end of the season."
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