Aston Villa are chasing Middlesbrough striker Jordan Rhodes.

The Express & Star says Boro look set to complete a permanent deal for Chelsea striker Patrick Bamford, who starred for them in a previous loan spell, potentially freeing up Rhodes.

Former Blackburn striker Rhodes is currently third in the Riverside pecking order behind Alvaro Negredo and former Villa man Rudy Gestede.

Boro boss Aitor Karanka is thought likely to listen to offers for the 26-year-old.

Villa and Sheffield Wednesday have been leading the chase for Rhodes, though it is believed Villa's financial firepower makes them favourites.