Aston Villa have been linked with a move for Reading midfielder John Swift, Football League World report.

The Lowdown: 2020 links

This isn’t the first time Villa have been credited with an interest in the 26-year-old.

Villa were set to launch a £6-8m offer for Swift’s services last summer, however, as we know, he remained with the Royals despite links to Sheffield United as well.

At this moment in time, the £25,000-a-week midfielder is out of contract next summer, meaning he could be available in a cut-price January move, should his situation remain the same.

And it seems as if Villa still have their eye on Swift’s signature.

The Latest: Source shares update

A source informed Football League World of Sheffield United’s interest in Swift on Friday.

Within their report, they claimed that Villa, along with Premier League rivals Brentford and Newcastle United, are also keeping tabs on Swift’s situation.

The Verdict: Sign

Should Villa firm up their interest in Swift, it could be a shrewd acquisition, especially as they didn’t land an out-and-out central attacking midfielder following Jack Grealish’s exit in the summer.

Swift is clearly a player Villa have had on their radar for some time, and by the looks of it, could be available for a bargain price due to his contract situation.

He’s also netted seven Championship goals in as many appearances this season, taking his senior club tally to 39, plus one for England at Under-21 level, so it could be a wise move by Johan Lange.

In other news: ‘What a mess’ – Matt Maher’s Aston Villa update has lots of fans fuming.