Former Stoke City coach Kevin Phillips has told Football Insider that he feels a move to Aston Villa for Harry Souttar would be a big step up for the player. 

The 22-year-old has been a standout performer for the Potters during the early stages of the season and has nailed down a regular spot under Michael O'Neill at the Bet365 Stadium.

As a result of this, a number of Premier League sides, including Villa, have been linked with a January move for his signature moving forwards.

Now Phillips has had his say on the situation, as he stated the following recently about the player's future:

"I think the Premier League would be a big step up for him but he is full of confidence right now. I would like to see him get promoted with Stoke, rather than moving to a Villa.

"I am unsure whether he's ready. He is definitely performing for Stoke right now."

Souttar has been with the Potters since the summer of 2016 after signing originally from Dundee United and has had to wait patiently for his chance at first team level after taking in loan spells with Ross County and Fleetwood Town.

The centre back currently has four years remaining on his contract with the Stoke-on-Trent side.

The Verdict 

It is easy to say that Souttar wouldn't be ready to play in the Premier League as it is a division that he is yet to experience since moving into English football.

The defender has excelled for Stoke so far this season and is fully deserving of the interest in his services from on high.

A move to the top flight is not a given however and he needs to continue to work hard and stay focused as we enter a hectic winter period.

For now he is certainly on the right track but it is worth noting that the top clubs will be looking for consistency above all else when considering a move for a player.