It has been well documented this summer that Aston Villa boss Steve Bruce would have to sell before he could buy in this transfer window following a big spending January, and it looks like the former Manchester United defender could be in line for a cash injection with a bidding war possibly set to take place for midfielder Jordan Veretout.

Veretout spent last season on loan in his native France with St Etienne, and although Steve Bruce could possibly persuade the player to help his promotion push next season, the funds the player’s sale would bring in are required to strengthen other areas of the squad.

Bruce has improved his side this summer with a series of bargain deals, including bringing John Terry to the club on a free transfer, and the signing of Hull winger Ahmed Elmohamady.

Frenchman Veretout did not thrill during his single season with Villa, and his performances that year were not enough to save the club from the drop.

With St Etienne and Fiorentina circling the player, Bruce will know he could receive a fee in the region of £10 million for the middle man, and will be rubbing his hands with the glee at the thought of investing this money back into his squad.

Veretout would probably be an excellent addition to his squad at this stage of the summer, and would surely excel at Championship level having spent last season at the top end of Ligue 1, but cashing in now is the right thing to do.

If Italians Fiorentina are interested and veretout wants the move, then Bruce will not stand in his way, but will work to ensure his side receive the fee they value the player at.

With another £10 million to spend if the money is given to Bruce, Villa will surely be in the top six next season.

How much should Bruce allow Veretout to leave for? Have your say below!