Championship sides Birmingham City and Aston Villa are interested in Bournemouth's Ivorian winger Max Gradel, according to The Sun.

The former Leicester City and Leeds United winger has struggled to break into Bournemouth's first team set up after a severe knee injury sidelined him for the vast majority of last season.

The 29-year-old winger has expressed his desire to leave Dean Court in search of regular first team football, which has attracted the attention of Premier League side Watford as well as Aston Villa and Birmingham City.

Eddie Howe is reluctant to allow Max Gradel to leave as he still sees the Ivorian forward as part of his long-term plans for Bournemouth.

However, it appears the talented winger may force Eddie Howe's hand.

Championship duo Aston Villa and Birmingham City are interested in Max Gradel, though a deal for the player looks unlikely.

The arrival of Max Gradel would undoubtedly be coup for either club, with the midfielder renowned for his direct, pacey dribbling ability.

Aston Villa and Birmingham fans, what do you make of the news? Would you like to see Max Gradel join your side? Can you see either of your teams managing to persuade Gradel to drop down a division? Would you regard it as a coup to acquire his services? Which club do you think would be the more enticing option for Gradel? Let us hear your thoughts and opinions in the comment section below!