Aston Villa is targeting Auxerre youngster Abdoulaye Sissoko, according to The Sun.

Steve Bruce is confident Villa can beat out Premier League clubs to Sissoko, after the 19-year impressed for France in the Toulon Tournament last week.

The youngster made five appearances for the Ligue 2 side last season.

It is reported that Villa scouts view Sissoko as a player with Premier League potential and will continue in their efforts to sign the Frenchman, despite him having two years to run on his Auxerre contract.