Aston Villa and Middlesbrough are fighting for the services of Everton winger Yannick Bolasie, reports the Express and Star.
The Teessiders appeared in pole position to sign the 29-year-old but a late move by Villa boss Steve Bruce may yet see the DR Congo international move to the West Midlands.
Bolasie met ‘Boro boss Tony Pulis on Monday, fuelling speculation that a deal was done. Today, however, he arrived at Villa’s Bodymoor Heath training facility for talks with the Villa manager.
Despite Villa’s unbeaten start to the season, Bruce is keen to strengthen his attack, particularly in wide areas.
Bolasie has plenty of lower league experience. He was a member of the Crystal Palace squad which won promotion to the Premier League in 2012-13. He previously spent time with Bristol City in the Championship, as well as Plymouth Argyle in League One.
The Eagles were also interested in taking Bolasie back to Selhurst Park. Reports from Merseyside claimed Everton were reluctant to loan to his former club lest the winger perform well. It was claimed the Toffees didn’t want to answer awkward questions from their fans if Bolasie performed well.
Bruce is keen to make it a double-deal; midfielder Mo Besic, 25, is also on Bruce’s wanted list, with both players targeted for year-long loan deals.
