Aston Villa aren’t short on central midfielders with Douglas Luiz, John McGinn, Morgan Sanson, Jacob Ramsey and Marvelous Nakamba at their disposal, but Eurosport claim they’re in the market for a new addition – Sheffield United’s Sander Berge.

The 23-year-old has three-and-a-half years remaining on his deal at Bramall Lane but could be on his way out this summer with United destined for relegation.

Berge joined the Blades from KRC Genk in January 2020 and has gone on to make 30 appearances in all competitions, scoring two goals and supplying two assists (Transfermarkt).

The Norwegian international has made only 13 Premier League appearances from a possible 26, however, as he’s been sidelined with a ‘freak injury’ since December.

It remains to be seen if Villa are willing to match the £22m spent by United last year given they are overstocked with options, but Berge would be a decent alternative.

He’s made 16 tackles, created 12 chances, won 16 aerial duels, had 19 successful dribbles, blocked 11 shots/passes, made 18 clearances and completed 85.8% of his 402 passes this season (WhoScored) – more tackles than Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings (WhoScored).

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Berge is a composed ball-winner who can affect the game at both ends of the pitch, but it makes little sense for Villa to push hard for his signing when Nakamba and Sanson are good enough cover for McGinn and Luiz.

Ramsey is an option too, not mentioning Conor Hourihane when he returns from his loan, so it would be a surprise to see the 23-year-old coming to Villa Park.