Aston Villa have edged ahead of AFC Bournemouth in the race to sign Stoke City goalkeeper, Jack Butland according to Football Insider. 

Butland was in impressive form for the Potters last season, even though they struggled in their first season back in the Championship, finishing the season in 16th position.

These good performances seemingly haven't gone unnoticed either, with the Villans and Cherries locked in a transfer tussle to sign the England international.

It has previously been reported by Sky Sports that Bournemouth were keen to land Butland's signature, but Football Insider now believe that Villa have edged in-front of Eddie Howe's side in their pursuit to sign him.

The report also revealed that Stoke are holding out for a fee believed to be in the region of £20m for Butland, who they evidently rate highly.

Aston Villa have recently tied Jed Steer down to a new contract after his heroics saw Dean Smith's side win promotion back into the Premier League.

But the Villa boss is keen to add to his goalkeeping options ahead of next season, and sees Butland as one of his top targets heading into the summer.

It remains to be seen as to whether Villa have tabled an official bid for Butland, but it certainly won't be the last we hear of this potential deal, with the transfer window edging closer to be opening in July.

The Verdict: 

This will be a promising update for Aston Villa supporters ahead of next season.

Butland has been in excellent form for a number of seasons now and would be more than deserving of a move back into the Premier League ahead of the new season.

I was surprised that he didn't move on in January, but I think now is the time for him to depart, as Stoke can reinvest the funds to strengthen their squad as they target promotion from the Championship.