Middlesbrough are bracing themselves for a £20m double raid from Villa for winger Stewart Downing and striker Tuncay Sanli.
Claret and Blue boss Martin O'Neill has yet to make a move in this summer's transfer window but reports are suggesting that the Boro pair will become his first signings.
Head honcho at the Riverside Steve Gibson will inevitably be aiming to balance his books after the club suffered relegation from the Premier League last season.
Manager Gareth Southgate won't want to lose two of his key men but at the same time he will understand that sacrifices must be made in order to bounce back to the top division at the first time of asking.
Downing has been strongly linked with Spurs, but it now appears that O'Neill will add to his impressive young English contingent at Villa Park.
However, one sticking point in the move is Downing's current foot injury which could rule him out for the first part of the season.
Also, Villa already have two wingers of note in Ashley Young and James Milner and any bid for the Boro man would seem strange, especially considering that other areas of the team need considerable strengthening.
Turkish front man Tuncay, on the other hand, would be an interesting addition as he would provide competition for Gabby Agbonlahor. The young English striker is in need of some back-up and a man of Tuncay's ability would keep him on his toes.
Middlesbrough's £20m asking price seems a little excessive and the double swoop could hinge on whether O'Neill is able to negotiate a cheaper fee.