Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard is reluctant to release Cameron Archer for loan this month.

The Daily Mail says a number of EFL clubs including Championship duo Preston and Derby are keen to take the 20 year-old on loan this month.

League One sides Sunderland, Portsmouth, Sheffield Wednesday, Charlton and Lincoln are also among those who will be in the running if Archer is made available.

But, for now, Villa are planning to keep hold of the England youth international.

Manager Steven Gerrard is a fan of the youngster and with Keinan Davis and Wesley out on loan Archer is the next striker in line behind Villa's established options of Danny Ings and Ollie Watkins.