Dean Smith's side are clearly riding high at the moment, so they need to make some exciting signings to keep the mood buoyant at Villa Park. Indeed, securing Neal Maupay would do just that, so they need to fight off Middlesbrough for his signature.

The 22-year-old has scored 23 goals and assisted seven in his 40 appearances for Brentford this season, and that should be music to the Villa faithful’s ears. Jack Grealish and Chelsea loanee Tammy Abraham have really clicked in the last few months and Maupay could have that same link next season.

It’s not clear where Abraham will end up next campaign considering the state of his parent club right now, but Maupay would fit right into this Villa side, whether they’re chasing promotion or trying to stay up in the Premier League. Dean Smith managed the Frenchman when he was Bretford’s manager so he knows exactly what he’s capable of.

The Mirror have reported that both Villa and Middlesbrough are among those interested, so the Villans should make sure they make an approach now while they’re the in-form team in the Championship. He’s fairly young, creative and proven under their manager, so he'd be perfect for Dean Smith and Aston Villa.

How perfect does that sound?

Aside from current form, Villa have a bigger fanbase than Middlesbrough and have been more successful historically, so they should be in the driving seat. However, they’ll only capture their man, if they stump up the cash to blow their transfer rivals out of the water.

Yes, finances are up in the air at the moment but the Smith project has been built on optimism so why not dream of a Premier League return and all the riches that come with it?

Brentford aren’t even going to make the play-offs, so he’ll be looking for a new club very soon. Villa should be the team to take his career onto the next level as they continue their revival.

Villa fans, who do you want to see your club sign in the summer? Join the discussion by commenting below...