Aston Villa could land a bargain deal in free agent Wayne Hennessey this summer.

What's the story?

With Tom Heaton having of course re-joined Manchester United this summer following his release from Villa, Dean Smith could do with a back-up option to Emi Martinez ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

And, according to The Daily Mail, former Crystal Palace goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey is an option for Smith's side, after leaving Selhurst Park following his own contract ending at the club.

It's also said that Chelsea and Burnley are also said to be interested in a move for the Welshman.

Premier League established

The 6 foot 6 giant has played 181 times in the Premier League, with the majority of them coming with spells at Wolves and Crystal Palace respectively.

At 34, Hennessey could come in as cover for Martinez and not kick up a fuss about being a number one, with Villa's Argentine firmly established as the club's undisputed first-choice goalkeeper for next season and over the coming years too.

What Hennessey will bring is a wealth of top-flight and international experience, with the veteran shot-stopper having played a whopping 96 times for Wales, including being involved at the EUROs this summer.

In fact, his Wales teammate, Danny Ward, said of him and Neville Southall ahead of the EUROs: "Two unbelievable custodians for Wales, which is quite a lot to live up to, but it’s something I embrace, especially when you’ve got Wayne still there, still with me. He has us in fits of laughter every day so it’s inspirational."

Given his experience and likely influence in the dressing room, there's no questioning Johan Lange could strike gold for a Premier League established player who won't cost him a penny in terms of a transfer fee either.

Meanwhile, Villa are set for an exciting boost...