Aston Villa are keen on Sheffield Wednesday left-back Matt Penney but could face competition from Premier League sides for the talented 20-year-old.

Football Insider have revealed that Dean Smith is keen on signing Penney, who has enjoyed a real breakthrough campaign with the Owls this season.

However, they also add that Brighton and Bournemouth are monitoring the player having sent scouts to check him out.

The youngster has played nine times for Jos Luhukay's side this season, with Wednesday undefeated in the eight games he has started.

Worryingly for the Yorkshire side, Penney is out of contract in the summer, although Luhukay recently stated that contract talks are underway and he was confident a deal would be reached.

As for Villa, this follows on from reports last week that suggested Smith had made bringing in a left-back a priority for the upcoming window.

The former Brentford boss is preparing for his first game in charge of his boyhood club when Villa host Swansea tomorrow.

Meanwhile, Penney is expected to be involved for the Owls against Middlesbrough tonight.

The Verdict

This is a real worry for Sheffield Wednesday as Penney is a top talent and his contract situation means they may have to sell.

He has proven himself to be a good player at this level and is an exciting prospect so you can understand the interest.

Villa are in desperate need for a left-back so you wouldn't be surprised if they made a move for him early in the window.

Thoughts, Villa and Wednesday fans? Let us know in the comments below.

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