West Ham United, Aston Villa battling for Gillingham defender?

Gillingham defender Jack Tucker has reportedly emerged as a potential transfer target for West Ham United and Aston Villa.

The 20-year-old has established himself as a key man at the League One outfit, making a total of 32 appearances in all competitions this season.

According to The Sun, West Ham and Aston Villa have identified the centre-back as a potential addition during the summer transfer window.

The report suggests that Hammers scouts were left impressed by Tucker after the respective teams met in the FA Cup at the start of 2020.

Villa are also said to be monitoring the situation, although the prospect has recently penned a new long-term deal, leaving his current club in a strong position regarding his future.

Gillingham revealed late last year that they had turned down an offer from an unnamed Championship club.