Versatile Nigeria defender Calvin Bassey has reportedly emerged as a transfer target for Premier League club Aston Villa.

According to the Telegraph UK, Aston Villa are targeting a new left-back to provide competition for Lucas Digne.

The Lions have drawn up a shortlist of players to strengthen the left-back position, with Bassey and Bologna star Aaron Hickey among the candidates.

It would be a reunion of sorts if Bassey's deal to Aston Villa goes through as the Nigerian and manager Steven Gerrard worked together at Glasgow Rangers before the former England star was poached by the Premier League side in November 2021.

The Leicester City academy product was handed his professional debut by Gerrard and went on to make 28 appearances for the Light Blues with the 41-year-old in the dugout.

Bassey has been in impressive form this season, evident by the fact that he helped Rangers qualify for the final of the Europa League and Scottish FA Cup, and was named the club's Young Player of the Season for 2021-2022.

And on the international stage, he made his starting debut for the Super Eagles in their 1-1 draw with Ghana in a 2022 World Cup playoff back in March. 

The 22-year-old, who is capable of playing as a left-sided central defender and left-back, has a contract with Rangers until June 2024.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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