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According to Football Insider, Aston Villa want to sign Brentford defender Yoann Barbet during the January transfer window.

What's the story?

Axel Tuanzebe has impressed alongside James Chester in central defence for Villa this season, but there is no question that the squad is light in that area of the field.

It is always difficult to secure quality signings during the January transfer window, particularly for the right price.

However, according to Football Insider, Villa are eyeing a cut-price move for Barbet, who will see his Brentford contract expire at the end of the season.

Villa boss Dean Smith has a strong relationship with the defender following their time together at Brentford, and it is thought that fact gives the club an edge over Stoke City, who are also believed to be interested.

Would Barbet be a good signing?

If Villa can indeed secure Barbet's signature for a cut-price fee then it is a no-brainer.

The 25-year-old joined Brentford from Ligue 2 outfit Chamois Niortais in June 2015, and has made 98 appearances in all competitions for the English club, scoring seven times in the process.

This term, Barbet has one goal in 17 appearances in all competitions, and his form at the back has once again been excellent.

The fact that the Frenchman can play at both left-back and in central defence makes him very attractive for Villa boss Smith, and it would be a fine January signing for the club.

Standing at 6ft 2in, Barbet is a powerhouse at the back, and has shown during his three years in English football that he is a very good defender. Stoke are also said to be interested, but Villa will fancy their chances if Smith can use his connections.