Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly plotting to make an approach for an Aston Villa midfielder in one of the next two transfer windows.
The two North London rivals have endured contrasting starts in the Premier League as they each look to post challenges for the title.
While Arsenal are unbeaten and have accumulated 17 points from seven matches, Spurs have already lost three times and trail their neighbours by seven points.
Ironically, it was the latter who conducted the most business in the engine room during the summer with Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall completing moves to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Nevertheless, Arsenal's acquisition of Mikel Merino was far more notable in the short term with the Spain international expected to become a first-choice pick after the October international break now that he has recovered from a shoulder injury.
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Villa open to Ramsey offers?
However, their respective efforts in the previous transfer window is unlikely to prevent either side from assessing their options at the turn of the year.
According to the Daily Mail, interest is emerging in a potential deal for Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey.
The 23-year-old has been regularly involved during the opening seven weeks of the campaign, making five starts and four substitute outings in all competitions.
His one assist came against West Ham United on the opening weekend of the season, while his solitary strike was recorded versus Young Boys in the Champions League.
Now with 131 senior appearances to his name, Ramsey has proven good value, yet it will potentially not stop Villa looking to cash in on his signature.
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How long does Ramsey have on contract?
With a contract in place until 2027, Villa do not necessarily have to rush to make a decision over whether to sell Ramsey for a significant fee.
That said, the club's owners are aware that a sale would provide their situation with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules with a huge boost.
Furthermore, clubs like Arsenal and Spurs are not particularly overflowing with homegrown talent in their ranks, making emerging players such as Ramsey as ideal signings.
On the flip side, it is unclear whether they would be prepared to meet a £50m asking price that is allegedly in place.
Darren Plant
