AXEL DIDN’T HAVE A CHANCE UNDER GERRARD — AGENT
÷STEVEN GERRARD has been accused of allowing Liverpool’s rivalry with Manchester United to damage Axel Tuanzebe’s chances of first-team football at Aston Villa. The defender, who was on loan at Villa from United, is now on loan at Napoli. His brother and agent Dimitri told ESPN: ‘Axel didn’t decide to move until it became very clear that he isn’t the manager’s first-choice centreback and the Napoli offer was very tempting. I have mixed emotions when it comes to Axel’s time at Villa. He is loved by the fans as he contributed highly to the club’s success in the Championship. However, following the arrival of Steven Gerrard at Villa Park, it felt as if the rivalry between United and Liverpool came to life. Axel was very open to staying at Villa.’
÷VILLA expect to pick up talks with Everton today over a deal for Lucas Digne. West Ham pulled out of the race amid the rising cost of a prospective £25million deal for the France left back. Villa have also made enquiries for West Ham keeper Darren Randolph. Hammers midfielder Conor Coventry is close to joining MK Dons on loan. ÷TOTTENHAM have rejected a £15m offer from Ajax for Steven Bergwijn, 24. The Holland international (right) cost close to £26m when he joined from PSV Eindhoven. Ajax are prepared to make an improved offer but believe a lack of game time has reduced his value.
÷CHELSEA are in discussions with Lyon about recalling Emerson Palmieri from his loan. Manager Thomas Tuchel is also looking for a right wing-back. ÷NEWCASTLE have spoken to Reims about striker Hugo Ekitike, as reported by Sportsmail yesterday, but his club want £25m plus bonuses and a sell-on percentage. Lille also insist that defender Sven Botman, who was subject of a £30m bid from Newcastle, will stay.
÷NORWICH CITY are still awaiting serious offers for midfielder Todd Cantwell. Newcastle enquired but have yet to commit to a meaningful bid. Leicester City have been linked but have no interest. Defender Rocky Bushiri, 22, has joined Hibernian from Norwich on loan.
BRIGHTON are interested in teenage Paraguay international Julio Enciso from Club Libertad. The 17-year-old midfielder has been capped twice for his country.
QPR are considering an offer for Derby goalkeeper David Marshall, 36, after Jordan Archer was injured in the FA Cup win over Rotherham.
MIDDLESBROUGH left back Williams Kokolo, 21, is discussing a loan move to Burton Albion.
WINDOW SHUTS ON MONDAY JANUARY 31 AT 11pm