Axel Tuanzebe is open to the idea of making his loan move from Manchester United to Aston Villa permanent, according to Birmingham Live. 

The lowdown

In August, Tuanzebe his third loan move from Old Trafford to Villa Park.

He's started three Premier League matches so far this season and may have kept his place for a fourth were he not ineligible to face his parent club last weekend.

Dean Smith has showered the defender with praise, calling him a 'fantastic player' with an 'unbelievable attitude'. He even went as far as to say 'there's a future captain in there'.

Tuanzebe has just under two years left on his United contract and is valued at £7.2million by Transfermarkt.

The latest

A source close to the player has told the publication that Tuanzebe has 'found his smile' at Villa Park and is 'loving football again'.

The 23-year-old 'would be open to one day considering the West Midlands his home on a permanent basis'.

Smith's recent shift to a back three has provided a 'perfect pathway' to the starting line-up for the Englishman.

The verdict

This move makes a great deal of sense for all parties, especially if the Villa boss intends to persist with that new shape.

Realistically, Tuanzebe is always going to be a little way down the pecking order at United, but if he shines on loan, the Red Devils can cash in.

The player himself will surely have forged a connection with the Villa faithful.

In other news, read Gregg Evans' intriguing claim on this Villa midfielder.