Aston Villa have joined the race to sign Hellas Verona midfielder Federico Viviani, according to claims in Italy. The 24-year-old was previously linked with a move to England after Leeds United tried to sign the ex-Italy U21 in 2014.
Viviani could look to exit Verona in this window after the club were relegated to Serie B last season, and the Championship side could land him for a fee in the region of €6m. However, Aston Villa will face competition from Serie A side Udinese who have also been monitoring his situation.
Viviani came through the Roma youth system, and even though he played in the senior side he never held down a regular place in the stating eleven.
Leeds United tried to take advantage of this in 2014 when Nicola Salerno attempted to bring the midfielder to Elland Road. That summer Leeds United brought in a number of Italian based players, but many have left the club including Mirco Antenucci, Tommaso Bianchi and Giuseppe Bellusci (on loan).
