Aston Villa are reportedly considering a summer move for Nantes captain Valentin Rongier, according to French outlet Le Foot, cited by Sport Witness.
Dean Smith looks set to be a busy man in the current window as he prepares his side for a Premier League return and has identified Rongier as a possible signing.
The 24-year-old, who came through the youth system at Nantes and turned professional with the club in 2014, would reportedly cost Villa around €15m.
However, Villa look set to face competition for the player’s signature, with fellow Premier League side Southampton and French side Lyon both keen on the defensive midfielder.
Rongier, who can play as a defensive midfielder or further forward in a more advanced role, has made 132 appearances for Nantes, scoring 10 times.
Villa look certain to add to their midfield options this summer, after recently releasing Glenn Whelan and Mile Jedinak, so sealing a deal for Rongier could prove to be a smart piece of business.
