Aston Villa one of a number of Premier League clubs ‘chasing’ Ivory Coast star

Aston Villa are set to resume their pursuit for a midfielder this summer and are thought to be targeting a Ligue 1 player.

According to reports in France, the club are one of a number of Premier League sides expressing interest in RC Lens’ Seko Fofana.

Dubbed the “New Yaya Toure”, Fofana has already attracted interest from both Tottenham and Newcastle United, so Aston Villa would face tough competition if they are to make a move.

The Ivory Coast international would be a great addition alongside Jacob Ramsey and John McGinn in midfield, though Newcastle and Spurs could both potentially provide more lucrative offers and the possibility of European football.

Who is Seko Fofana?

Seko Fofana has lit up Ligue 1 since joining Lens in 2020 and has scored seven goals from midfield this season.

The 26-year-old is familiar with England after spending three years with Manchester City - joining the club’s academy in 2013 before joining Udinese with zero Premier League appearances under his belt.

However, Fofana did make 21 appearances in the Championship whilst on loan from the Manchester club.

The midfielder’s contract doesn’t expire until 2024 and Lens will certainly be looking to make a significant profit if he is to leave the club, two years after signing for less than £8 million.