Aston Villa enter race to sign Roberto Firmino

Aston Villa are reportedly readying a move for Liverpool striker Roberto Firmino. The out of favour Brazilian, who is currently unable to force his way into Liverpool's starting XI on a regular basis, is reportedly ready to leave Anfield in search of first-team football.

Steven Gerrard is set to raid his former club and table a £45 million bid as Villa seek to procure a new striker for the second half of the season.

With Danny Ings and Ollie Watkins currently struggling for goals, Gerrard is looking for a new striker to add to his squad.

It is understood that Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has no plans to sell Firmino though, particularly during the month of January as some of his attacking stars depart for the African Cup of Nations. There is also some uncertainty regarding the long-term future of Sadio Mane, who is yet to have signed a new deal at Anfield.

It is also reported that Philippe Coutinho is another name on the transfer wishlist of Aston Villa, with Gerrard keen to snap up his former club team mate from Barcelona.