Aston Villa man reportedly wanted by Championship rivals

According to reports, Barnsley are hoping to sign Gary Gardner from Aston Villa before the end of the transfer window.

During his time at Villa Park, Gardner has struggled to gain regular time for the clubs first team and has undergone loan spells with the likes of Nottingham Forest, Brighton and Sheffield Wednesday.

Villa will be keen to sell for the right price as Gardner is seemingly not part of their future first team plans.

The Tykes are looking to bolster their midfield and view the 25-year-old Gardner as a realistic target.  They will however have to face competition from Forest, who are also interested in signing the player.

As Gardner has played for Forest on loan previously, they may have the edge in the race to sign him. However, if Barnsley are able to offer him better conditions in a contract offer, they may also have a chance of signing the player.