Sky Bet Championship Aston Villa side are interested in signing Crystal Palace and Scotland midfielder James McArthur, but face strong competition from top flight side Burnley for his signature.
The Birmingham Mail reports that McArthur is on Bruce’s radar, and that the Villa boss is extremely interested in signing the hard working 29-year-old.
The midfielder is expected to leave Crystal Palace this summer after falling out of favour last season.
Of course, there is a new man in charge at Selhurst Park in the shape of Frank de Boer, but he is still reportedly considered surplus to requirements.
Reports suggest that Villa are also chasing Stoke City midfielder Glenn Whelan, but McArthur is believed to be Steve Bruce’s first choice, as the Villa man aims to build a squad capable of challenging for promotion back to the Premier League.
It will not be easy for the Villains to get their man. Financially they are not in the same position as they were last season following their relegation from the Premier League, and following the signing of John Terry, the wage bill at Villa Park may not stretch much further.
Because of this, McArthur may opt to remain in the Premier League and join Sean Dyche’s Burnley.
The Clarets are looking for a new midfielder to replace Steven Defour, who is rumoured to be on his way out of Turf Moor.
McArthur would add a wealth of experience to Villa’s midfield if he were to join the club.
The Scottish international has appeared 28 times for his nation, as well as having over 100 Premier League appearances to his name.
