Villa among teams looking to sign Matt Penney

Dean Smith will reportedly battle the likes of Bournemouth and Brighton in the race to sign Sheffield Wednesday youngster Matt Penney.

According to Football Insider, a source close to the club has confirmed that the player is attracting interest from both the Premier League and the Championship as he emerges as a first-team regular this season.

The versatile youngster, who can play as a defender or as a winger, is very highly thought of at Hillsborough, with the Championship side looking to tie him down with a long-term deal.

The player was said to have caught the eye during Wednesday’s recent victory at Villa Park.

He has made nine appearances in the league this season and has impressed at the tender age of 20.

Smith will be keen to make a mark in the transfer window, with James Collins and Jamaican international Alex Marshall linked with moves to the club following Smith’s appointment.