Aston Villa may face a battle to lure Ibrahim Sangare to Villa Park this summer, but the midfielder is 'a better Douglas Luiz', according to journalist Josh Holland.

The Midlands outfit were Europe's sixth biggest spenders during the January transfer window, but it appears that head coach Steven Gerrard is preparing to splash the cash once again.

What's the latest news involving Sangare?

According to Dutch media outlet Voetbal International, Villa's interest in PSV Eindhoven defensive midfielder Sangare is increasing.

The report suggests Gerrard, who was appointed as the Premier League side's boss last November, was in the King Power Stadium stands when Sangare's current employers battled it out with Leicester City in the Europa Conference League last month.

Sangare has tasted glory in recent weeks, with him helping PSV to overcome Ajax and win the Dutch Cup.

The 24-year-old's eye-catching form has resulted in Crystal Palace and Leicester City also joining Villa in the hunt for his signature.

However, PSV are in a strong negotiating position as Sangare's contract is not due to expire until the summer of 2025, meaning they are not in an immediate rush to sanction his departure.

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What has Josh Holland said about Sangare?

Holland believes securing the services of Sangare would result in Gerrard securing an upgrade on fellow holding midfielder Luiz.

However, the journalist warns it may be tough to negotiate a deal with PSV as they are facing up to the possibility of two other big-names also leaving in the summer.

Holland told GIVEMESPORT: "I think he's a better Douglas Luiz, so I think he'd be perfect for Villa.

"I don't think PSV will be able to say no to the money that Villa will be able to offer. I think the only thing that Villa could struggle with is Cody Gakpo and Noni Madueke also look like they're about to leave PSV.

"Are the Dutch Cup winners going to allow three of their best players to leave? That's the problem. I don't think that can happen."

Should Villa be looking for a Luiz replacement?

Luiz is set to enter the final 12 months of his £52,000-per-week contract in the summer, so it would make sense for Gerrard to be making plans ahead of his potential exit in the not-too-distant future.

Sangare, who has won 20 international caps for the Ivory Coast, could be the perfect solution for Villa.

The 6 ft 3 ace has been described by PSV boss Roger Schmidt as 'unstoppable' and, with him still being in the relatively early days of his career, there is plenty of time for Gerrard to mould him into the defensive midfielder he wants at Villa Park.