Aston Villa have joined the race for Sheffield United's £5 million-rated fullback Kyle Naughton.

The Sun says Villa boss Martin O'Neill is planning a swoop for the Sheffield-born right-back in January.

The Irishman has had rave reports on Naughton, 19, since he broke into the Blades side earlier this season.

And O'Neill, who wants to snap-up England's top young talent, ran a personal check in Saturday's 1-0 win over Preston at Bramall Lane.

Naughton has made only 11 appearances but is already regarded as one of the hottest young properties outside the Premier League.

He is being tipped for a glittering future after graduating from the Blades' Academy and Manchester City boss Hughes has had him watched repeatedly since his full debut just two months ago.