8:32am Saturday 30th August 2008
DEAN ASHTON is a £12 million transfer target for ambitious Aston Villa, according to reports.
The 24-year-old striker has been in good form for the Hammers, hitting a hatful of goals during pre-season and scoring both goals in the 2-1 win over Wigan on the opening day of the Premier League season.
Villains boss Martin O'Neill took his summer spending spree to £48 million following the arrival of Newcastle's James Milner to Villa Park.
But he is eager to add another striker to his squad and former Crewe and Norwich hitman Ashton fits in with his policy of buying young English talent.
Ashton - who signed a new long-term contract with the Hammers in May - was reportedly linked with a move to Manchester United earlier in the summer, while rumours persist that bitter rivals Spurs remain interested in the England man.
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