ASTON Villa could be ready to make a summer swoop for Rovers skipper Garry Flitcroft.

As I understand it, Villa boss Graham Taylor is a big admirer of the 30-year-old midfielder.

And he is thought to be watching developments closely with Flitcroft yet to agree terms over a new contract to keep him at Ewood.

As things stand, the former Manchester City star would be free to walk away for nothing in a year's time if a new deal can't be thrashed out.

So if the two parties fail to reach an agreement this summer then Rovers may decide to cash in rather than risk losing one of their most influential players on a free.

So far, Rovers have offered Flitcroft an extra year on top of the 12 months his current deal still has to run.

But the player wants two years on top of his existing contract before he decides to commit his long-term future to Rovers.