Aston Villa have suffered a blow in their chase for Said Benrahma.

Boss Dean Smith is a huge admirer of the Brentford playmaker.

But Villa could not sign him last summer or in January, and now they have competition.

Chelsea manager Frank Lampard is interested, per RMC Sport's Mohamed Bouhafsi.

The Blues would see Benrahma as someone with a huge upside, and that he is available for an affordable fee makes him an even more exciting prospect.

One thing in Villa's favour is that Benhrama would have an easier time getting first team action.