Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard would love to work with Rangers winger Ryan Kent again, claims journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The 25-year-old has been linked with a move to the Premier League, and while Villa's name has not been mentioned recently, O'Rourke thinks both the player and Gerrard would be more than open to a reunion.

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

What is the latest news involving Kent?

Last month, 90min reported that Kent was attracting plenty of interest from teams in the English top flight.

According to the outlet, Leeds United, Everton, Wolves and newly-promoted Fulham were all eyeing the Englishman.

Abroad, it is also thought that RB Leipzig, who were knocked out by Kent's Rangers side in the Europa League semi-finals, hold an interest.

As per Football Insider, Kent has a £20m release clause in his contract, which would not be crazy money for a side playing in the Premier League.

Man United TABLE Ruben Neves bid?! Hear more on The Football Terrace...

What has O'Rourke said about Kent and Villa?

If Villa decide to join the race to sign Kent this summer, O'Rourke thinks they would have the advantage because of Gerrard, while the journalist also feels it is a transfer the Villans boss would welcome.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, he said: "It [Gerrard factor] would give them an advantage over any other team in the Premier League if they do decide to push forward with a deal for Ryan Kent.

"I think Gerrard would love him back, and I'm sure Ryan Kent would really relish the opportunity of working under Steven Gerrard again."

How did Kent perform last season?

Kent had a strong campaign at Ibrox last term, making 46 appearances and providing 20 assists in all competitions, according to Transfermarkt. While Tam McManus criticised him for going missing in some games, the ex-Hibernian player did admit that he can be "unbelievable" at times.

His contribution helped Rangers to reach the Europa League final, and while they were not able to win the trophy on the night or the Scottish Premiership title, the Gers did at least manage to claim the Scottish Cup, so it was still a good season for Kent and his team-mates.

Speaking about one of his performances in Europe, Owen Hargreaves compared him to former Bayern Munich star Franck Ribery, arguably one of the best wingers of his generation.

"I love watching Ryan Kent, technically he’s absolutely brilliant. It looked like Franck Ribery when he used to do it for Bayern," the ex-England midfielder said on BT Sport (via Liverpool Echo). "Absolutely exceptional with the ball at his feet. Running at players is his greatest attribute."

All in all, Kent could be a good addition to Villa's squad, but it looks like Gerrard might just have other priorities at this moment in time.