According to the Daily Telegraph, Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce is weighing up a move for Manchester City outcast Fabian Delph.
The 27-year-old was a hometown hero at Villa Park before a controversial move to the Etihad, where he has been largely on the periphery of the first-team ever since.
Interest in bringing the England international back to the Midlands could be a blow to Newcastle United, who have also been linked with a move for the former Leeds United ace.
A loan offer for him is believed to have been made by the Toon Army, though the outcome of such an offer is not yet known.
Villa are also thought to be keen on another touted Toon target in the shape of Everton midfielder Tom Cleverley, meaning two of the Championship’s biggest clubs could be set for a double transfer battle this month.
Magpies chief Rafa Benitez desperately needs to introduce more creativity into the ranks if he is to consolidate his title surge, particularly in the absence of Jonjo Shelvey.
