Liverpool could battle Manchester United for £40m rated Aston Villa midfielder

Liverpool are keeping tabs on Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn who has also been linked with a move to Manchester United.

Recent reports have said that Jurgen Klopp sent scouts to watch the player and that has prompted Villa boss Steven Gerrard to make a statement that the player is not for sale.

McGinn has been a stand out for the Birmingham side this season and reports first emerged in January that Manchester United were keen on a move for the former Hibs star.

Here is everything you need to know about Liverpool’s reported interest in John McGinn and what has been said:

Manchester United chasing McGinn but Liverpool also interested

Manchester United were linked with a move for John McGinn in January with reports claiming they could make a bid reaching £40m to sign him from Aston Villa this summer.

That talk cooled over the following weeks but fresh reports have said that both United and Liverpool are sending scouts to watch the 27-year old.

It is also being said that Villa boss Steven Gerrard is acutely aware of interest in the Scotland international and is planning to offer the player a new contract.

Although McGinn still has plenty of time remaining on his current deal a fresh contract would act as a “hands off” warning to any potential suitors.

The former Hibs midfielder has been in excellent form for both club and country this season, scoring three goals in 21 appearances across all competition for Villa.

On the intentional stage he is a fan favourite of the Tartan Army and has regularly been one of Scotland’s best performers for the past few years.

McGinn began his career with Scottish Premiership side St Mirren in 2012 before making the move to Hibs in 2015.

After starring for the Easter Road club he signed for Aston Villa in 2018, opting for a move to the then Championship side over Scottish champions Celtic.

He has won 42 caps for Scotland to date and scored 11 goals for his country.

West Ham planning summer talks with Jarrod Bowen

West Ham are set to offer Jarrod Bowen a new contract in the summer amid interest from Liverpool, according to reports.

The former Hull City attacker was linked with a move to Anfield last month and the Hammers are keen to keep a hold of the 25-year old who has scored 12 goals in 35 appearances across all competitions this season.

Bowen has been in terrific form over the past few months and has scored seven goals in his last seven matches.

However, the Reds were also linked with Leeds United star Raphinha for several months and Jurgen Klopp’s capture of Luis Diaz could have ended their interest in both the Brazilian and Bowen.

Diaz cost Liverpool €45 million (£37.5 million) and made his debut for the club as a substitute in their FA Cup game against Cardiff City.

The Colombian international made his Premier League debut and first Reds start in their 2-0 win over Leicester City last week.