Exciting Aston Villa youngster Jacob Ramsey is being watched by a host of clubs in what will be a 'concerning' development for the Midlands club, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.
The Lowdown: Ramsey shining for Villa
Steven Gerrard's side may have made a disappointing start to their Premier League season but Ramsey has been one of the undoubted bright sparks.
The 21-year-old has been a class act in the centre of midfield, registering one goal and one assist and performing with maturity and consistency well beyond his years. Indeed, as per WhoScored, he is their third-best outfield performer to have started six or more league games this season.
Unfortunately, Ramsey's form is likely to alert other clubs, and that appears to be the case in light of one journalist's claim.
The Latest: Ramsey a likely target for other clubs
Speaking to GiveMeSport, O'Rourke is convinced that the youngster is being watched by "top" Premier League clubs ahead of a possible exit from Villa Park, with Liverpool having reportedly pursued him earlier this year.
The journalist stated:
"I’m sure some of the top clubs in the Premier League – and maybe even in Europe as well – are watching Jacob Ramsey.
"It will be concerning for Villa, but he signed a new contract not long ago so they’re in a good position with regards to his future.
"If he continues to impress and develop, there is no doubt there will be interest from other top clubs."
The Verdict: Hard to keep hold of him
Unfortunately, keeping hold of Ramsey in the long term could be tough for Villa, given the level of interest which is naturally going to come his way if he continued to stand out in the Midlands.
The 21-year-old will surely be tempted the idea of playing for a club who are competing in Europe regularly, and that is something the Villains are more than struggling to guarantee him.
For now, the hope is that Ramsey stays put and continues to perform at a high level - he has been described as 'wonderful' by Gerrard - but it would be hard to begrudge him a move away eventually if his potential outstrips that of Aston Villa.