Leeds United line up bid for Aston Villa defender James Chester?

Leeds United are reportedly interested in signing Aston Villa defender James Chester before the end of the summer transfer window.

Having allowed Pontus Jansson to leave for Brentford, Leeds are now in the market for a new centre-back as they look to build a squad capable of challenging for promotion to the Premier League.

According to the Daily Star, head coach Marcelo Bielsa has indicated that he is an admirer of Chester, who has just helped Villa earn a return to the top flight.

The 30-year-old made a total of 28 Championship appearances last season, although the last of those came back in January.

Villa are likely to be open to selling the Wales international, who may cost in the region of £7.5m despite his lack of recent game time.

Chester has made 124 outings in all competitions during his three years at Villa Park.