Aston Villa are reportedly interested in signing Middlesbrough striker Jordan Rhodes on loan.

The Scotland international joined Boro in January 2015, off the back of scoring 85 times in 169 appearances for Blackburn Rovers, who he joined from Huddersfield Town, where he also enjoyed great success.

Rhodes only managed six Championship goals in the second half of last season, however, and has struggled for first-team football this term - only appearing twice in the Premier League under Aitor Karanka.

According to The Sun, new Villa boss Steve Bruce is a firm admirer of the 26-year-old and will launch a loan move when the winter transfer window opens at the start of 2017.

Rhodes started his professional career with Ipswich Town in 2007.