Jordan Amavi to Atletico Madrid?

Spanish giants Atletico Madrid have emerged as surprise candidates to sign Aston Villa wideman Jordan Amavi during the summer transfer window.

The former Nice man had been linked with a potential switch away from Villa Park last winter but the club's hierarchy turned down a £25m bid from French club Marseille.

The 23-year-old has since featured in a position further up the field with winter recruit Neil Taylor occupying the left side of the defence.

French publication L'Equipe claims that Atleti are lining up a surprise move for the versatile ace as they seek to replace the outgoing Theo Hernandez.

Theo, currently on a season-long loan with Alaves, has already agreed personal terms with arch-rivals Real Madrid ahead of his proposed move to the Bernabeu in the summer.

Atleti and Marseille are not the only clubs keen on Amavi with Napoli also on the lookout for a potential replacement for contract rebel Faouzi Ghoulam.

Steve Bruce's side are likely to push for the services of Oostende's Bruno Godeau, should they part ways with Amavi in the summer transfer window.