Aston Villa appear to have been handed a clear shot at signing one of their mooted summer transfer targets after fresh reports emerged this week...

What's the word?

The Midlands outfit have been linked with a move to sign former Dean Smith sensation Said Benrahma on more than one occasion this window but they've faced competition from some of their Premier League rivals.

One of which is Crystal Palace, who have seemingly ruled themselves out of signing the 25-year-old. Speaking to Football.London, manager Roy Hodgson claimed his focus was on adding another striker to his squad and claimed "a lot has to happen" before he moves for Benrahma.

Earlier this month, the Daily Mail claimed Villa were keen on signing the Bees frontman but it would cost around £25m to secure him.

Worthwhile boost?

Now that the door has seemingly opened for Smith, it would be a massive mistake on Johan Lange's part if he were to not try to sign the impressive Algerian wizard.

During Brentford's agonising playoff campaign, Benrahma provided 17 goals and nine assists, which is far greater than what any Villa player managed last term.

He's so good that Sam Saunders, B team coach, claims the winger could "nutmeg a mermaid" whilst Bees boss Thomas Frank has previously lauded him as "magnificent."

Benrahma also averaged a whopping 3.8 shots, three dribbles and 2.1 key passes per game, via WhoScored, so he's more than just a goal threat on the wings.

The biggest benefit from this signing would undoubtedly be the familiarity that Smith already has with him having been the man to originally bring him to the Bees.

In the past, the Villa boss has lauded him as an "energetic" player who "has everything" whilst journalist Neil Dunsworth claims that "Smith obviously likes him," so it would only make sense to secure him this summer.

For just £25m, this should absolutely be done.

AND in other news, Villa must steer clear of "unprofessional" £5m man...