Aston Villa will only sell James Chester this summer as a last resort, with the Sky Bet Championship yet to receive any firm offers for the centre-back.

Failure to win promotion back to the Premier League last season has left Villa looking to balance the books this summer, with Chester’s sale a possibility.

A report from the Express and Star, has claimed the Championship outfit are only likely to sell the 29-year-old as a last resort this summer and if they are struggling to balance the books at the end of the transfer window.

Stoke City and Brighton and Hove Albion have been linked with Chester, but Villa have received no firm offer for the centre-back so far this summer.

Chester has been impressive at Villa Park over the last two seasons, particularly last year, as he helped Steve Bruce’s side to fourth in the table.

The 29-year-old was ever-present during the regular season, making 46 appearances.

Chester then made a further three appearances in the Championship’s play-off campaign, as Villa fell agonisingly short in their quest to secure promotion, losing the play-off final.

The Verdict  

This is good news for Villa, who look like they will have last season’s squad picked apart this summer.

Chester was key last season and he will continue to be key for Villa, even more so without John Terry next season.

If Villa retain his service this summer it will be a huge plus for Steve Bruce, as Chester is one of the best centre-backs in the Championship.

Of course, money might talk later in the window, but for now, this is a positive move.

Aston Villa fans… Let us know your thoughts!