Aston Villa begin talks with Juventus for three-time Serie A winner Rodrigo Bentancur

EXCLUSIVE: Aston Villa begin talks with Juventus for three-time Serie A winner Rodrigo Bentancur as boss Steven Gerrard continues to transform his squad in an exciting January shopping spree

  • Aston Villa want a new holding midfielder and Rodrigo Bentancur is a key target
  • Initial discussions are underway with Juventus, who are willing to listen to offers
  • Bentancur has won seven major trophies in Turin since signing five years ago
  • Steven Gerrard has already been very active in the transfer market at Villa Park


Aston Villa have made an approach for Juventus midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur.

The Uruguayan has become a prominent target for Villa as they seek a holding player and Sportsmail understands discussions are underway.

Bentancur has made 18 appearances in Serie A this season but Juventus are willing to listen to offers as they try to rebalance their squad over the coming transfer windows.

Rodrigo Bentancur has made 18 appearances in Serie A this season, registering two assists

Still only 24, Bentancur joined Juve from Boca Juniors five years ago and has held his own in Turin, helping them to seven major trophies including three Serie A titles. 

He is playing under Massimiliano Allegri for the second time having also worked with Maurizio Sarri and Andrea Pirlo.

After signing Philippe Coutinho, Robin Olsen and Lucas Digne this month, boss Steven Gerrard was also targeting a holding midfielder and a centre-back.

Steven Gerrard has already signed Philippe Coutinho, Robin Olsen and Lucas Digne this month

Steven Gerrard has already signed Philippe Coutinho, Robin Olsen and Lucas Digne this month