Aston Villa hit with huge blow ahead of Sheffield United clash, Ancelotti lined up, and more

Sheffield United’s upcoming opponents Aston Villa have been hit with a huge blow ahead of their clash at Bramall Lane on Saturday.

The two teams were promotion rivals in The Championship last season, with Villa winning the play-off final weeks after the Blades confirmed their automatic promotion.

Now, star Aston Villa defender Tyrone Mings has been ruled out for the rest of December, leaving the opposition without a key player on their trip to play Sheffield United.

The news will be a huge blow for Aston Villa boss Dean Smith, in a tricky match-up with the Blades.

Villa have had a mixed start to the season, and are only out of the relegation places on goal difference.

The rest of today’s headlines:

Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City have all regularly been ‘sounding out’ the agent of Brazilian star Neymar, in view of a potential transfer from PSG. (Daily Mirror)

Arsenal are interested in speaking to Carlo Ancelloti in regards to their vacant manager role, after the Italian was sacked from Napoli, despite a 4-0 win in the Champions League. (Daily Mail)

Meanwhile, other reports claim that Ancelloti is NOT on the radar of Arsenal. (The Athletic)

Some believe that Goodison Park is a more likely destination for Ancelloti than The Emirates, as he is said to be the top choice to replace Marco Silva. (The Telegraph)

Manchester City may focus their search for a defender on Barcelona star Samuel Umtiti, who has been linked with a move away from the Nou Camp. (L’Equipe)

Former Manchester United and Inter Milan star Zlatan Ibrahimovic could make a shock return to the Premier League - the Swede has reportedly been offered a bumper contract by Everton. (Daily Express)

In-form Wolves striker Raul Jimenez apparently fancies a move to La Liga, and would like to play for a bigger club. (Daily Mail)