VILLA HOPING TO BUY ‘BMW’ PARTS

Aston VillA are ready to move for Brentford striker ollie Watkins, leaving the Championship play-off runners-up in a fight to keep their ‘BMW’ frontline in tact. Brentford are determined to hang on to their prized assets and launch another promotion push next season after their Wembley defeat by Fulham. But 24-year-old Watkins, who scored 26 goals this season, is a target for Villa and Crystal Palace. Winger said Benrahma, who contributed 17 goals and set up nine more in the season, is also admired by Villa. the Algerian is considered the most likely to depart as he is keen to resolve his future and open to a move. Bryan Mbeumo — the youngest of the ‘BMW’ trio at 20 — netted 15 goals in the campaign and is sure to attract interest, too. left back Rico Henry, 23, is being chased by a string of top-flight clubs including Brighton, West Ham and newly promoted duo leeds and West Bromwich. Brentford believe they can win promotion next season if they retain the majority of the squad who got them to within touching distance of a first season in the Premier league. But manager thomas Frank admitted before the final that it was ‘likely’ one of his star men would leave this summer. Brentford feel they are in a strong position to at least command big fees should any club firm up their interest. Watkins (below) — whose contract does not contain a buy-out clause — and Henry are on deals that run until 2023. Watkins’ contract includes a further 12-month option for Brentford. Benrahma’s contract expires in 2022 but also contains a year option for Brentford. the west london club are renowned for their clever recruitment policy and had already begun working on contingency plans in case they needed to replace key players. A new striker, left-sided attacker and left back, all capable of making the starting Xi, are among the key positions they were looking to fill this summer even before their promotion fate was known.