Liverpool attacking midfielder Takumi Minamino could be an option for Aston Villa after they missed out on Arsenal youngster Emile Smith-Rowe who has signed a new deal at the Emirates Stadium. This is according to the publication from the stables of The Boot Room.

Japan national team star Minamino signed for Liverpool from Austrian champions Red Bull Salzburg at the start of last year but he has not been able to cement a place in the star-studded Liverpool forward line. The Japan international has found it hard to displace one of the front trio of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino at Liverpool. In addition, the Japan player still has to contend with Portuguese international Diogo Jota who signed for the Reds from fellow Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers during last summer’s transfer window.