Aston Villa are reportedly one of the Premier League clubs interested in completing the signing of Vasco da Gama youngster Andrey Santos.

The Lowdown: Santos shining in Brazil

The 18-year-old Brazilian midfielder is already making a name for himself in his homeland, scoring five goals in 27 senior appearances.

Santos' displays have caught the eye of Brazil and Vasco legend Juninho, labelling him a 'monster' and admitting: "He's not going to be better than me, he's going to be much better than me. He is a much more complete player. At 18, I didn't play half as much as he does."

A number of top English clubs have been impressed too, with the youngster clearly seen as someone who can make the grade in Europe, having even been compared to Barcelona legend Sergio Busquets.

With Steven Gerrard on the lookout for the new signings, it looks as though he sees the Vasco midfielder as someone who can bolster his options.

The Latest: Villa keen on move

According to journalist Jorge Nicola [via Sport Witness], Johan Lange and Villa have joined the race to sign Santos, along with Barcelona, Lyon and Newcastle United.

It is stated that Vasco are demanding €38.5million (£33.4m) for his services, however, so he wouldn't come on the cheap.

Lange may hold one advantage in convincing the player and his representatives though - Santos shares the same agent as Diego Carlos.

The Verdict: One for the future

This is certainly an exciting update, with Brazilian players always having an intrigue and excitement about them, regardless of the position they play.

To be compared to Busquets is incredibly high praise, and with Douglas Luiz likely to leave Villa at the end of the season, Santos could even be viewed as his long-term replacement in the middle of the park.

Granted, he wouldn't be signed as an immediate starter but the fact that he is already playing regularly for his current club suggests he could make the step up to the Premier League relatively swiftly, having been called 'incredible' by teammate Nene.