ASTON VILLA FAVOURITE FOR ENGLAND DUO

Aston Villa have emerged as favourites to sign Stoke City stopper Jack Butland according to reports in England. Butland is regarded as one of the best English goalkeeper but suffered relegation with Stoke City two seasons ago.

The 26-year-old stayed back in the Championship last season but Stoke endured an underwhelming season despite starting the season as the Bookies favourite.

Aston Villa are thought to be perfectly placed to secure his signature as the club got promoted to the Premier League after winning the promotion play-off finals at Wembley against Derby County.

Stoke are demanding £20 million for his services and it remains to be seen if the newly promoted club would sanction a big money for the England international.

Stoke boss Nathan Jones already has contingency plans for the player’s departure as Barnsley stopper Adam Davies is expected to join the club on a free transfer.

Despite playing in the Championship Butland has been called up to the national team when fit and the player wants a move to the EPL next season.

Butland is a quality goalkeeper whose ability is Premier League standard despite a few injuries in recent years he is among the best shot stoppers in the EPL.

The Villans are also believed to be interested in West Ham forward Andy Caroll ad they look to build a strong squad that can survive the drop next season. Caroll has endured an injury riddled career so far and is expected to be released by West Ham this summer.

Aston Villa were promoted to the Premier League via the promotion playoffs and main striker Tammy Abraham future is uncertain.

With Frank Lampard likely to be at the helms of affairs in Chelsea, the Blues may be reluctant to loan the forward to Villa Park next season. Carollpossesses similar attributes like Abraham and has experience playing in the Premier League.