Premier League giants Chelsea are looking to hijack any move for Aston Villa winger Jack Grealish, according to reports in the Sun.

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They're said to be looking at the potential of taking the homegrown talent to Stamford Bridge and potentially snatching him from under the noses of long-term suitors Tottenham Hotspur.

Grealish has an admirer who has helped facilitate the Blues' interest in him, former Villa and Chelsea defender John Terry is said to have endorsed the 22-year old's talents to the Chelsea hierarchy.

Aston Villa were under pressure to sell Grealish and despite the apparent end of their financial troubles, the youngster still looks set to depart the club he joined as a six-year old.

Despite the new investment at Villa Park, Grealish looks set to depart after the missed out on Premier League football, but they've vowed not to let their star leave cheaply.

Spurs were thought to be close to a £20m deal for Grealish, who has played 110 times for his boyhood heroes, weighing in with nine goals. That now looks to be presumptuous with Chelsea entering the race for his signature.

The Verdict

It's getting towards silly season now, the transfer window is edging shut and clubs are beginning to make their move. If Grealish is going, Villa will want it done quickly so they can set about putting the £20m to good use.

The torrid summer always looked like bringing to an end the youngster's spell at Villa Park, but it will only be of value to Steve Bruce if his side can spend the money his sale generates.