Lovre Kalinic to leave Villa after six months?

Lovre Kalinic could reportedly leave Aston Villa this summer following their promotion back to the Premier League.

The 29-year-old moved to the Midlands side in January from Gent in a deal worth a reported £5m, but he played only eight games before being dropped by manager Dean Smith in favour of Jed Steer.

The Villans are strengthening in all areas ahead of their first season in the top flight and are rumoured to be lining up a £20m move for Jack Butland, while discussions are ongoing with Steer over a new long-term deal.

According to Le 10 Sport, Kalinic is likely to be shown the door this summer and has a potential suitor in the form of Ligue 1 outfit Nantes, who are on the hunt for a new stopper following the departure of Ciprian Tatarusanu to Lyon.

Villa are expected to have to take a hit on the transfer fee should they allow Kalinic, who has four years remaining on his current contract, to leave on a permanent deal.