According to the Daily Star, Aston Villa will look to continue their summer recruitment in the next week, as they target deals for two Premier League players.

Steve Bruce is hoping to take Villa’s interest in Glenn Whelan and Sam Johnstone to the next level, as he aims to bolster his squad ahead of the 2017/18 campaign.

Stoke City’s Whelan, 33, has been on Villa’s radar a while now, and The Potters have already rejected a £500k bid from the Championship club, with Mark Hughes’ side reportedly holding out for £1m.

Villa are hoping to make some progress in their pursuit of Whelan, as they prepare an improved bid for the Irishman.

Another player who could be on his way to Villa Park in the near future is Manchester United’s Johnstone, who is wanted on a season-long loan by Bruce.

The 24-year old goalkeeper enjoyed a successful loan spell in the Midlands during the second-half of the 2016/17 campaign, making 22 appearances and keeping eight clean sheets, which helped Villa to a mid-table finish after they briefly flirted with the Sky Bet Championship's relegation zone.

It has been a slow start to the summer transfer window for Villa, but Bruce is beginning to make progress with some deals and secured the signing of former Chelsea and England captain, John Terry, earlier this week.

Villa fans… Are you hoping to see Whelan and Johnstone at Villa Park next season? Let us know your thoughts!