Aston Villa are hoping to beat a number of teams across Europe to the signing of Stephane Bahoken, according to reports emerging from France.

French media outlet RMC Sport is reporting that Aston Villa are one of the clubs to have firmed up their interest with a concrete offer for the soon-to-be free agent.

Bahoken is due to leave Strasbourg when his contract expires with the Ligue 1 side but the forward is also open to the idea of staying at the club.

The 25-year-old is thought to be considering his options and he has offers from Aston Villa and Barnsley.

Barnsley, who were recently relegated from the Championship, are due to play League One football next term but they are still hoping to tempt the Cameroon international to the club.

Aston Villa, on the other hand, are hoping to win promotion to the Premier League when they face Fulham in the play-off final next weekend and they have identified Bahoken as a good option to provide competition for places with the likes of Keinan Davis, Jonathan Kodjia and Scott Hogan up top.

Two Spanish clubs - Espanyol and Levante - are likely to rival the Villains for Bahoken while Italian side Serie A and French outfit Angers also want the striker, who has scored seven goals this season.

The Verdict

With a tally of seven goals this season, there are many better options out there than Bahoken.

On a free transfer, it is a low risk move for Aston Villa but they need to aim higher if they win promotion.

If they stay down, though, perhaps the former St Mirren loanee would be a decent option in the Championship, should he wish to play second tier English football.

Aston Villa and Barnsley fans - Would you like to sign Bahoken? Let us know below...