Aston Villa target Jordan Rhodes looks set to leave Middlesbrough
Goal-shy Villa's interest in Middlesbrough striker Jordan Rhodes could be firmed up this week with the forward seemingly surplus to requirements on Teesside.
Boro look set to complete a permanent deal for Chelsea striker Patrick Bamford, who starred for them in a previous loan spell, potentially freeing up Rhodes.
Former Blackburn striker Rhodes is currently third in the Riverside pecking order behind Alvaro Negredo and former Villa man Rudy Gestede. Boro boss Aitor Karanka is thought likely to listen to offers for the 26-year-old.
Villa and Sheffield Wednesday have been leading the chase for Rhodes, though it is believed Villa's financial firepower makes them favourites.
Villa boss Steve Bruce is desperate for reinforcements to fill the void left by Jonathan Kodjia, who is at the Africa Cup of Nations with Ivory Coast. Current strikeforce Gabby Agbonlahor and Ross McCormack looked way off the pace against Wolves on Saturday.
Meanwhile, Bruce has shipped Aly Cissokho out on loan to Greek giants Olympiacos. The 29-year-old lost his place to Jordan Amavi earlier this season and Olympiacos have an option to make the deal permanent.
