With his future up in arms at Griffin Park, Brentford defender Yoann Barbet has emerged as a transfer target for Premier League side Newcastle United, according to reports.

The central defender has been a solid figure for the Bees over the last four years, making over 100 appearances for the West London outfit since joining from Niort in 2015.

But the Frenchman's time with the club could be coming to an end in the summer, with his current deal expiring at the end of the season, and it would be a massive blow for the Bees if they were to lose him on a free transfer.

It is believed that Rafa Benitez is looking to sign Barbet at the end of the season, which could spell worry in particular for Dean Smith's Aston Villa.

Reports earlier on in the season claimed that Barbet was a target for Dean Smith, having worked closely with the player during his tenure at Griffin Park.

But, with Newcastle's place in the Premier League practically confirmed for yet another year and Villa's bid for promotion from the Championship hanging by a thread, the Villans' chances of luring the centre-half to Villa Park may now be a lot slimmer.

If you are a Villa fan, you have got to be urging Smith to get this deal done. Their defence has dramatically improved since the loan signings of Tyrone Mings and Kortney Hause, but if they are unable to sign them permanently next year, then Barbet would be an excellent option to have.

From a financial perspective, signing Barbet on a free transfer would be an absolute steal - he has become one of the best defenders in the league over the last few years, and is a player that Smith can get the best out of.

They have got to act fast on this one.