Aston Villa are emerging as the most persistent side in the chase for Lucas Paquetá, ahead of Everton and Tottenham, according to a report from Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte.

With the transfer window closing on Monday, the Midlands club are weighing up a late push to test West Ham’s resolve.

The Hammers have made their stance clear: they will not sell the Brazilian midfielder for less than £50m, as previously reported

That has not stopped Villa from considering a move, even though the time frame is short and negotiations are seen as difficult at this stage.

Tottenham were in the race earlier, but their pursuit cooled once they agreed a deal for Dutch star Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig. Everton are also keeping tabs, although it is Unai Emery’s side who appear the most determined to try for Paquetá before the deadline.

The midfielder, recently cleared by the FA’s independent commission, has returned to Brazil’s squad under Carlo Ancelotti.

He has been one of West Ham’s standout performers in a poor start to the season, scoring against both Chelsea and Wolverhampton.

West Ham, who visit Nottingham Forest this weekend, are in no mood to lose their most creative asset cheaply. Still, with Aston Villa pushing until the very end, the Hammers may have to brace for some late drama.

Tottenham’s chances of signing Manchester City duo Manuel Akanji and Nathan Ake before transfer deadline

Meanwhile, Tottenham are looking for late reinforcements at the back as Thomas Frank looks to bolster his ranks to compete on multiple fronts this season.

With time running out before Monday’s transfer deadline, clubs are set to step up their efforts in terms of both incomings and outgoings.

READ MORE: Danny Simpson says player Manchester City sold for £5m is one of the best of his generation

Manuel Akanji favours Champions League move as Nathan Ake to Tottenham speculation played down

Akanji looks increasingly likely to leave Man City this summer amid a flurry of interest in his services.

Tottenham reportedly made a move for Akanji on Friday, but AC Milan are also firmly in the picture for Akanji along with Crystal Palace.

Indeed, Milan’s Igli Tare has confirmed that Akanji is a player of interest for the Serie A giants.

Journalist Tom Barclay has now reported on Spurs’ interest in Akanji, reiterating that they are keen on making a move for the Swiss star

He also claimed that Tottenham could have a big advantage over Akanji’s other suitors as the defender’s preference is to play Champions League football.

Spurs are in the Champions League this season, while Milan and Palace are not.

In addition, The Sun’s report touched upon speculation linking Ake with Tottenham, something Spurs fans hope is concrete.

However, the outlet’s sources have ‘played down the prospects of that transfer’.