Everton full-back Lucas Digne has been rumoured to leave the Merseyside club for a while now, with the Frenchman unhappy under Rafa Benitez. His January exit seems ever so likely now, with a host of English and foreign clubs desperate to snap at the player. Chelsea, who have Ben Chilwell ruled out for the season due to a a cruciate ligament injury, are looking at him for a loan deal whilst newly-rich Newcastle United are considering him as a part of the grand overhaul at the club.

However, it appears as if Digne is prioritizing Villa over the above-mentioned options. Digne is set to snub Chelsea and Newcastle United to sign for Steven Gerrard’s side, who have signed Philippe Coutinho on loan for this season. Sky Sports reports that personal terms between the player and club will not be an issue and Villa are in pole position to get the 28-year-old.

There could be some negotiations lasting until the end of this window potentially, as Everton are set to demand around 20-25 million pounds for the player. Both clubs are yet to agree on a monetary fee and this could take a little while, but there is every possibility that this transfer will take place as the player is strongly seeking a move out.

Digne and Benitez have had a public fallout, something that didn’t go down well with the fans. The player was backed immensely by the fans in a bid to lure him to stay, but it doesn’t appear as if their wishes will be granted. He has asked the club to grant his exit, as confirmed by the Everton manager himself.

Having emerged into prominence from the academy of Lille, Digne made his first impression after making a stellar move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2013. He then caught the attention of Barcelona in 2016, with the club making a 16.5 million Euros move to grab hold of the player.

The defender found it difficult to get games in Catalonia, propelling a move to Everton alongside his Barca teammate Andre Gomes. He has made 86 appearances for Everton since making a 22-million-euro move.