Ex-Liverpool star’s £21m Premier League return could hand Reds major transfer boost

Ex-Liverpool ace Georginio Wijnaldum could be set to make a return to the Premier League, with Aston Villa tipped to land their rumoured target for a fee of just £21m this summer.

The midfielder enjoyed a highly successful five seasons at Anfield, with highlights including winning the Champions League in 2019, and capturing the Premier League title the following year.

Here's all you need to know about the transfer news:

What's the story?

According to French football outlet Jeunes Footeux, the Netherlands international has grown tired of having to settle for a place on the bench at Paris Saint-Germain, and could look to move elsewhere in the summer.

Aston Villa are said to be keen admirers of the player, and could potentially secure his services for a bargain fee.

The super-rich Ligue 1 serial-winners are said to be asking for £21m for the player, which will be entirely profit for the club as they signed the player for nothing upon the expiry of his contract last summer.

At the age of 31, Wijnaldum clearly wouldn't be a signing with a long-term future at Villa, but he could certainly offer Steven Gerrard's side some invaluable Premier League experience for a couple of seasons at least.

A born leader both on the field and in the dressing room, the Villains would certainly benefit from the ex-Newcastle United star's positive influence.

How does this benefit Liverpool?

Aston Villa are also keen admirers of Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Yves Bissouma, but his £50m asking price proved too steep when they looked to sign the player in January.

Interestingly, Liverpool are also said to hold a keen interest in the 25-year-old ace, who has been followed closely by the likes of Arsenal and Newcastle United too.

Should Villa opt for Wijnaldum over Bissouma, in an effort to stretch their summer transfer budget significantly further, this would eliminate one potential rival for the Malian's signature.

The Reds' desire to get some fresh legs into their midfield remains a pressing concern ahead of the summer transfer window, with the likes of James Milner, Jordan Henderson and Thiago all now in their thirties.