Aston Villa have reportedly enquired about Liverpool centre-back Joe Gomez.
The 27-year-old has made 224 competitive appearances since joining Liverpool from Charlton Athletic in the summer of 2015.
Gomez showcased his versatility in Jurgen Klopp's final season in charge, operating as a full-back on both flanks, a centre-back and even a defensive midfielder on a couple of occasions.
That versatility earned him a spot in England's Euro 2024 squad, although he failed to make a single appearance in his country's run to the final.
Gomez is now just one year away from reaching a decade of service for Liverpool, but it is currently unclear whether he will reach that notable milestone.
© Imago
Villa make enquiry over Gomez move
The England international was absent from Saturday's 2-0 win over Ipswich Town, with the defender given time to contemplate his options amid significant transfer interest.
Chelsea and Newcastle United have been linked with his signature, but it appears that Villa are making the strongest move to sign the former Charlton man this summer.
According to Football Insider, Villa have a strong interest in Gomez and made an enquiry about a potential transfer.
Gomez is open to joining Unai Emery's side because it could allow him to gain a regular starting role which is something that he may not enjoy if he remains part of Arne Slot's squad.
However, the report claims that Villa will need to offload Diego Carlos before they can push ahead in their pursuit of Gomez.
© Reuters
Why are Villa chasing Gomez?
If Carlos were to depart, Emery would be left with Ezri Konsa, Pau Torres, Tyrone Mings and Kortney Hause as his main central defensive options.
Gomez would likely challenge the quartet for a starting spot, while he would also provide Emery with a valuable full-back option, especially on the right side of defence.
Villa's current right-back options include Matty Cash and 18-year-old Kosta Nedeljkovic, who made his Villa debut in Saturday's win over West Ham United.
Gomez would offer valuable Champions League experience, having made 36 appearances in UEFA's elite club competition.
The defender also has a Champions League winners' medal after featuring in nine games in Liverpool's triumphant European campaign in 2018-19.
