Aston Villa to win race for Brentford defender Ezri Konsa?

Aston Villa have reportedly moved to the brink of signing Brentford defender Ezri Konsa.

The newly-promoted side have already made six first-team additions this summer, which includes a £26m deal for Tyrone Mings.

However, it appears that manager Dean Smith remains keen on strengthening his backline with a player whom he has previously worked with at Brentford.

According to Sky Sports News, Villa are prepared to meet the £12m release clause in the England Under-21 international's contract.

Konsa has spent just the one season at Griffin Park, making a total of 42 starts in the Championship over the past 12 months.

Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham have also been linked with the 21-year-old in recent weeks.