There are 'legs’ to the speculation surrounding Aston Villa’s interest in Southampton defender Jan Bednarek, according to Daily Express journalist Ryan Taylor.

Bednarek has been linked with a move away from St. Mary’s throughout the summer, and Villa Park now appears to be his most likely destination as deadline day fast approaches.

What is the latest news involving Bednarek?

Back in June, Polish outlet Meczyki (via the Daily Echo) claimed that the 26-year-old wanted to leave Southampton following five years at the club in order to take the next step in his career.

It was stated that Serie A giants AS Roma and Napoli were interested in prising Bednarek away from St. Mary’s and that he would cost any potential suitor €15 million (£12.8m).

However, talkSPORT’s Alex Crook has now provided an update on the centre-back’s situation, disclosing that Villa are ‘now looking most likely destination’ for him.

And reliable Polish journalist Tomasz Włodarczyk told Meczyki.pl’s program, Okno Transferowe, that Bednarek is ‘getting closer’ to making a switch to Villa Park.

Steven Gerrard is believed to be eager to strengthen his options at the heart of defence after summer signing Diego Carlos ruptured his Achilles tendon in the final minutes of his home debut against Everton.

What has Taylor said about Bednarek?

Taylor reckons that the reports from Wlodarczyk carry some weight due to his reputation when reporting on other transfer stories coming out of his homeland.

In an interview with GiveMeSport, he said: “I do believe there's legs to that one because the guy who reported it is very reliable in terms of Polish transfer news.

“He had a few stories in January on Matty Cash to Atletico Madrid, and it turned out to be true.”

Would Bednarek be a good signing?

Bednarek was a regular in Southampton’s starting lineup throughout 2021/22, scoring four goals in his 30 Premier League appearances. And his underlying numbers were even more impressive, leading to him being labelled a "brick wall".

As per WhoScored, the 6 foot 2 ace won 2.9 aerial duels, only Mohammed Salisu won more, while also making 2.3 interceptions, 4.5 clearances, and 0.9 blocks per league game, tallies which none of his teammates could better.

The 6 foot 2 ace, therefore, could help plug the gap in Villa’s backline that Carlos’ prolonged absence will leave, providing stiff competition for Tyrone Mings, Ezri Konsa and Calum Chambers.