Aston Villa are weighing up a sensational move to sign Chelsea defender Gary Cahill, according to reports from the Birmingham Mail via French media outlet La Gazette des Transferts.

It is believed that Villa boss Steve Bruce is looking to sign the 32-year old on a free transfer when his contract expires at Stamford Bridge at the end of this season, after being linked with a loan move for the former Villa defender in the summer.

The England international and two-time Premier League champion is no stranger to Villa Park, having came through the youth ranks to make over 30 appearances for the West Midlands side between 2004 and 2008.

French clubs Marseille and Bordeaux as well as Premier League side Watford are also monitoring Cahill, who is yet to make an appearance under new Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri thus far this season.

A move for another former Chelsea captain, John Terry, failed to materialise in the summer, however this move, should it happen, could be a magnificent addition for Villa regardless of what division they are in next year.

The Verdict 

Wow - what a signing this could be.

Cahill has not long ago been to the World Cup with England, and featured many times for Chelsea under Antonio Conte last season.

There is a long way to go in this transfer development of course, however what a signing this could be if it pulls off.