Villa want Giles Barnes

Aston Villa are reportedly interested in Derby midfielder Giles Barnes as they look to hijack any attempts by Alan Curbishley and West Ham to snap up the youngster.

West Ham were reportedly very close to signing Giles Barnes in the summer, with the only stumbling block being Derby's reluctance to let the player go.

However, Derby are keen to cash in as they look to bring in more experienced players to help keep them in the Premiership.

Giles Barnes is valued at around £3.5 million by Derby, and West Ham offered £2.5 million last summer.

Martin O'Neill sees the young midfielder as an essential part of the future for Aston Villa.