Aston Villa and Sheffield United will have to pay £8.5million if they are to secure the services of Angers striker Stephane Bahoken, it has been reported.

According to a print edition of The Sunday Mirror (28/04, page 68), both the Premier League bound Blades and play-off contenders Villa are interested in the striker, who has scored 11 goals in 29 league appearances this season to help secure the club's top flight survival.

According to French publication RMC Sport, following a meeting between the player's agent and the Angers hierarchy, it has been agreed that the asking price for the 26-year-old will be set at £8.5million.

Bahoken only joined Angers from Ligue 1 rivals Strasbourg last summer, having helped Strasbourg win back-to-back promotions and then secure survival in the French top flight during his four years at the club.

Sheffield United will be playing Premier League football next season after winning automatic promotion, whilst Aston Villa will be hoping to join them, with Dean Smith's side embarking on the play-offs this weekend.

The Verdict

Bahoken's record shows he could be useful to both Sheffield United and Aston Villa next season - whatever division Dean Smith's side are in.

Both will need to strengthen following the likely departure of on loan attacking options in the summer, and Bahoken would be a strong option to do that.

You feel Sheffield United are in pole position in any transfer race for the attacker given their guarantee of top flight football, but that could all change if Villa enjoy a successful play-off campaign.

Thoughts? Let us know!