Aston Villa are getting the ball rolling on negotiations for Brentford striker Ollie Watkins.

The Championship club are loathe to lose Watkins, but failing to get into the Premier League means they may not be able to convince the player to stay.

Sky Sports says Villa want the 24-year-old and will make an opening bid this week.

However, it will take £25 million to convince Brentford to sell.

Villa also want to sign Watkins' teammate Said Benrahma, who is valued similarly by Brentford.

Both signings are unlikely, but Villa may have the financial might to pull off one.