Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard is watching potential targets in action during the closing stages of the season and Marseille star Boubacar Kamara is on the Villa Park radar, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Midlands giants were Europe's sixth biggest spenders during the January window and it appears Gerrard is keen to splash the cash once again in the summer.

What's the latest news involving Kamara?

According to MailOnline, Villa are in the market for two central midfielders and Gerrard was seen in the Orange Velodrome stands watching Kamara during Marseille's 3-2 win over Nantes last week.

The report suggests the £22.5million-rated star is being coveted by numerous clubs and, despite being highly valued, will be available on a free transfer in the summer.

That is because Kamara's £46,000-per-week contract is set to expire at the end of the season and he has refused to commit his long-term future to Marseille.

It means he is in the final weeks of his time with the Ligue 1 giants, where he has racked up 164 appearances after coming through the ranks.

Amid interest from Barcelona, ​​Borussia Dortmund, AC Milan, Roma, Juventus, Arsenal and Newcastle United, Villa have reportedly already offered Kamara a 'big contract' as they attempt to win the race for the 22-year-old defensive midfielder.

Liverpool 2-0 Everton! Full reaction to Merseyside derby on The Football Terrace...

What has Dean Jones said about Kamara?

Jones believes Gerrard is keen to watch shortlisted targets at close quarters before making a move for them in the summer.

The transfer insider understands Kamara, who has been described as a 'phenomenon' by former team-mate Rolando, has been on Villa's radar for a prolonged period of time.

When asked whether Gerrard was in Marseille to watch potential targets in action, Jones told GIVEMESPORT: "I think it's quite likely the case, especially Kamara.

"I think he is somebody that's been on their radar a little while and they're currently weighing up who is going to fit best into the team in that position.

"Steven Gerrard is currently going around a few places and just seeing for himself exactly how he thinks their personality on the pitch would fit in with what his vision is at Aston Villa."

Who else has Gerrard been watching?

According to talkSPORT, Villa are keeping tabs on PSV Eindhoven winger Noni Madueke ahead of potentially lodging a big-money bid when the transfer window reopens.

The report suggests Gerrard and his assistant Gary McAllister were spotted watching the four-cap England under-21 international in action during his current employers' Europa Conference League clash with Leicester City earlier this month.

Madueke has registered 14 goal contributions in 32 appearances this season, underlining that he could add attacking flair to Villa's ranks.