Aston Villa have joined Tottenham in the race to sign Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie, according to Sportmediaset, cited by GIFN.

The Lowdown: McKennie profiled

McKennie only made his move to Juventus permanent this summer from Schalke after a successful loan spell.

He cost Juventus £18.45m, with the 22-year-old on €2.95m-a-year (£2.52m) in Turin, around £48,500-a-week.

McKennie, who can play as a central, defensive or right-midfielder, appears to be at the top of his game with his career-high £22.5m Transfermarkt valuation.

The USA international, described as a ‘rock’ by Andrea Pirlo, is approaching 50 appearances for Juventus, however, it seems as if he could be on the move.

The Latest: Villa interest

GIFN shared a story on Tuesday morning, admitting Villa and Spurs are both interested in the midfielder, who is up for sale.

The links to Villa are described as ‘new’, whereas Tottenham have been thinking about a swap deal involving Tanguy Ndombele.

The Verdict: Ward-Prowse alternative

Villa’s long-term target James Ward-Prowse recently signed a new deal with Southampton, so McKennie could be a shrewd alternative and it makes sense that these links have come fresh off the back of that news.

Still just 22 years of age, he’s already been praised by Pirlo and has made over 150 senior appearances for club and country.

McKennie has even played in eight separate positions during his career to highlight his versatility, and with Juventus willing to sell, he could be a late summer addition for Johan Lange should he pip Spurs to a deal.

In other news: Many AVFC fans give their thoughts as another player departs.