Aston Villa have launched a move for Middlesbrough winger Albert Adomah.
The 28-year-old was left out of Aitor Karanka's squad for Saturday's 0-0 draw at West Brom.
He has less than 12 months left on his contract but talks over an extension have failed.
Championship side Villa have now firmed up their interest and are prepared to pay Adomah higher wages than Boro, according to HITC.
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Owner Tony Xia dropped a big hint on social media on Saturday that a deal for a winger is nearing completion.
He tweeted: "An attacking mid/winger is close to done, working hard for the striker before the deadline."
Karanka confirmed that he opted to axe Adomah from his squad for the Baggies snoozefest but remained coy on his future.