Aston Villa, along with Crystal Palace, are thought to be leading the way in the race to sign Chelsea midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

That’s according to a weekend report from TEAMtalk, which, as to be expected, has had many Villa fans talking on social media.

TEAMtalk claim that Loftus-Cheek, who is currently out on loan with Fulham and has over three years left on his Stamford Bridge deal, is not in the Blues’ long-term plans.

Chelsea have informed interested sides that they would be open to a permanent deal, with Villa keen on a potential summer swoop.

Loftus-Cheek has been a regular in Scott Parker’s side this season, making 29 appearances, scoring just once.

The Cottagers’ chances of signing the attacking midfielder on a full-time basis depends on their Premier League status next season.

Villa fans react

Birmingham Live relayed the story and shared the transfer news on Twitter.

This is what these Villa supporters had to say in reply, with one picking out the Englishman’s ‘powerful’ nature.

"Oh boy another waste of space , we’ve already got Barkley"

Credit: @r_ecrowley

"Please"

Credit: @etmm05

"Perfect signing personally, I'd sign him and pay whatever Utd and Lingard want as well!"

Credit: @PHolmes89

"Bench upgrade, exactly what we need going forward, for the right price."

Credit: @jondodd53

"Very good player and powerful but injury prone"

Credit: @villa_vernon

"Decent player, with good strength. Something we can sometimes lack."

Credit: @duncanlowen

In other news: Villa keen on versatile defender valued at £21.5m, find out more here