Aston Villa are still being linked with a move for FC Porto attacker Otavio.

The Lowdown: Otavio rumours

NSWE have bolstered Steven Gerrard’s first-team squad with five senior signings so far this summer, and more could be on the way.

Transfer insider Dean Jones believes that Villa are looking for two more big additions in midfield and attack ahead of Gerrard’s first full season in charge.

Reports in recent weeks claimed that Villa were set to make a €30m (£25.8m) offer for Otavio, and it looks as if the club are still keen on the Portugal international.

The Latest: Transfer update

Sports Witness relayed an update from Portuguese outlet Record regarding Otavio.

They claimed that Leeds previously made an offer for the 27-year-old and that Aston Villa and Leicester City also ‘want the player’. The report adds that Otavio’s release clause currently stands at €40m but will increase to €60m on Friday.

The Verdict: Time to act

It looks as if Villa are still looking at Otavio, and if they want to make a move, now would be the ideal time due to his release clause situation.

The 27-year-old, labelled as an ‘exciting’ forward by ESPN commentator Marc Lewis, can play on either wing or in a central attacking role behind the forward and has netted 40 senior goals for club and country during his career. Otavio’s strength appears to be creating chances for others, though, with 74 senior club assists to his name.

He could be a shrewd addition and would be able to play in multiple positions, and with his Transfermarkt valuation rising to a career-high £27m, now could be the perfect time to act before his stock increases further.