Aston Villa and Stoke City will reportedly go head-to-head in January for the signature of Brentford’s Yoann Barbet.
According to a report from Football Insider, both clubs are interested in signing the Brentford man who has impressed this season.
Dean Smith will know all about Barbet having worked with him during his time with the Bees.
Many would have expected the new Aston Villa boss to return to Griffin Park when the January transfer window swings around and looks to be his plan for the new year.
The player is out of contract at the end of the season and Brentford could be tempted by a deal to cash in on the player.
They risk losing him for nothing at the end of the season, which could also be appealing to both Villa and Stoke if they are looking to cut costs.
Villa have been desperate to strengthen defensively after losing John Terry at the end of last season.
