Aston Villa look set to lose several players this summer following their failure to win promotion to the Premier League and the Birmingham Mail are reporting that up to four top flight clubs are keeping tabs on James Chester.

The central defender formed a quality partnership with John Terry last season and it's no real surprise that he has attracted interest from the Premier League given his solid form.

The article suggests that Brighton and Hove Albion and Burnley are two of the club's interested whilst it is thought that others will enter the race for his signature with speculation set to intensify.

Chester played every single game for the Villains last season and his defensive performances were excellent as the club reached the end of season Play-Off Final, where Villa were defeated 1-0 by Fulham.

Given the club's financial plight it looks set to be a long summer for the Birmingham-based club and it seems highly likely at this stage that Chester will make a move elsewhere.

The Verdict

James Chester is undoubtedly one of the best defenders in the Championship and the Premier League beckons for the Wales international.

The only thing that seems to be unsure at this stage is just how much Villa will demand for the defender.

If Chester does leave it will mean that both central defenders from last season's team will have departed and that will leave boss Steve Bruce with a huge void to fill.

Aston Villa fans, how good is James Chester? Let us know in the comments below!!!