Steven Gerrard reportedly wants Aston Villa to add to their striking options before allowing Cameron Archer out on loan this summer.

The 20-year-old made a breakthrough into first team football last season, scoring a hat-trick in the 6-0 League Cup win over Barrow, while also scoring against Chelsea in the same competition. He made three Premier League appearances before joining Preston North End on loan for the second half of the campaign.

Archer played a total of 20 times for Preston, scoring seven goals in the Championship. His performances have prompted a number of clubs to make their interest known this summer.

It is claimed that the striker is a transfer target for up to 14 clubs. A number of clubs from the Championship, including Watford and West Bromwich Albion are said to be keen, while Gerrard ’s former club Rangers have also been credited with an interest.

However, according to the Sun, the Villa boss will not allow Archer to leave on loan until they bring another striker to the club. Gerrard is also keen to observe the player during pre-season in order to make a decision on where he will play his football in the new campaign.

While Villa are well stocked in the striking department at the moment, there has been reports over the futures of Danny Ings and Ollie Watkins with the striking duo’s future at Villa Park uncertain. Keinan Davis could also complete a permanent move to Nottingham Forest this summer after helping the Reds to earn promotion back to the Premier League via the play-offs.

Gerrard has been linked with a reunion with former Liverpool teammate Luis Suarez who is available on a free transfer after leaving Atletico Madrid, although there will be some barriers to that move. Villa are on the verge of completing a transfer of prolific Rangers youngster Rory Wilson after agreeing a fee with the Scottish side.