Aston Villa's chief scout Tony Coton has reportedly recommended that the club move for Bristol City left-back Joe Bryan.
The 24-year-old has been instrumental in City's ambitious push for promotion, as the Robins sit three points off the playoff places in the Championship standings.
According to The Sun, Villa fancy their chances of landing the highly-rated defender if they achieve Premier League status for next season.
The report adds that Everton, Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion are also pondering a £7m swoop for the Championship prospect.
The left-back position at Aston Villa has been shared by Neil Taylor and Alan Hutton over the course of the season, and the arrival of Bryan would add further competition to Steve Bruce's side.
Bryan has three goals and two assists for Bristol so far this campaign.
