Villa join Reds in pursuit of Stocker

Aston Villa have joined Liverpool in the race for FC Basel winger Valentin Stocker, but the Reds are in pole position to land the 21-year-old, according to Swiss sources.

Stocker is a talented winger who likes to roam freely across the field and act as an auxiliary striker from the left flank.

His composure, finishing and off-the-ball movement are all very impressive, and when he is being used in a system which allows him to move freely between positions and break into the box as much as possible, his skills come to the fore. Stocker possesses great dribbling ability and tremendous flair which allow him to pass opponents, score and create.

He has scored six goals and provided the same number of assists so far this season, and he has scored three times in seven international caps.

Despite Stocker's talent and potential he still needs to mature as he tends from time to time to lose his cool on the pitch. He is also a tad lacking in the physical department.

He is contracted to Basel until 2014.

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.