Aston Villa plot move for Premier League striker after missing out on Jordan Rhodes

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Aston Villa are interested in signing Burnley striker Ashley Barnes

Villa boss Steve Bruce was interested in bringing Rhodes to Villa Park this month, but has now given up in his pursuit of the £10million-rated Middlesbrough striker.

Bruce admitted: ”It looks as if that's run its course. We tried our best to bring him in but that looks as if it's not going to happen."

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Villa have given up in their pursuit of Middlesbrough striker Jordan Rhodes

It is claimed Aston Villa had a bid of £6million knocked back by Boro for Rhodes’ services with the Premier League outfit wanting £10m.

However, the Independent claim Bruce is still keen on bolstering his attacking ranks and will now divert his attention to Barnes as a cheaper alternative.

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Villa completed the £3million signing of Henri Lansbury from Nottingham Forest today

The Independent say he will cost half the amount of Boro’s asking price for Rhodes, with Burnley willing to part with Barnes if an offer of around £5m came in for him.

The 27-year-old has started just six games for Sean Dyche’s side this season and is apparently keen on stepping down a division to secure regular game time.

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Villa have already secured the services of Manchester United goalkeeper Sam Johnstone and today confirmed the signing of Henri Lansbury from Nottingham Forest.

Bruce is also keeping a close eye on Barnsley captain Conor Hourihane, with a fee supposedly agreed between the two clubs and a medical now expected.

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