Aston Villa had what was overall a disappointing 2016/17 season, but ended the season with hope that Steve Bruce could guide them back to the top flight.

Many backed Villa for an instant return to the Premier League before a ball had been kicked this season, however 2016/17 was more of a transition period as the club chopped and changed their squad after a horrific season which saw them relegated to the second tier.

Roberto Di Matteo was sacked however and Aston Villa were still in crisis, lingering down at the wrong end of the Championship table.

Di Matteo's successor Steve Bruce has since brought an uplift in form at Villa Park which saw them finish 13th, but there is still plenty of room for improvement.

Aston Villa will look to their squad this summer as Steve Bruce must shape the squad in his own image, however this could also see players going the other way too.

Here's TWO players that Aston Villa should look to sign over the summer...

 

Kyle Bartley

Kyle Bartley had an impressive season in 2016/17, as he was a defensive rock for Leeds United alongside centre back partner Pontus Jansson.

The 26-year-old made 45 league appearances for Leeds as they were a real force this season, narrowly missing out on a play-off place.

Bartley also scored 6 goals which is a pretty good goalscoring record for a centre back.

It's been reported that central defender Tommy Elphick will be allowed to leave the club this summer so Steve Bruce could be in the market for a new defender this summer, and Kyle Bartley was one of the highest performing in his position during the 2016/17 Championship campaign.

 

Sam Johnstone

Sam Johnstone spent the second half of the season on loan at Villa Park, arriving in January from Manchester United.

The 24-year-old was one of several January arrivals and he went on to make 21 league outings for Steve Bruce's side.

Johnstone was highly rated at Villa Park as he was an improvement on previous first choice 'keeper Pierluigi Gollini.

Johnstone joining Villa on a permanent deal could be beneficial for all parties as the shot stopper is very unlikely to get game time at Manchester United, and after a decent loan spell in 2016/17, the West Midlands club would know what they're getting.

Villa fans... Would you like to Bartley or Johnstone sign this summer? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!