The Daily Mail’s website is reporting that Aston Villa are leading the race to sign Charlton’s Player Of The Year, Jordan Cousins.

The Mail believe the presence of former Valley player and coach, Mark Robson, on their coaching staff will give Villa an advantage.

Newcastle and Liverpool are also thought to be interested in the Greenwich born 21-year-old midfielder.

Bob Peeters mainly played Cousins on the left during his tenure at the club, but Guy Luzon returned him to his favoured central role.

His consistent and energetic performances, sprinkled with the odd goal, earned him the fans’ POTY crown.

In all competitions, Cousins has made 86 starts for the Addicks, plus 8 further appearances from the bench, scoring 5 goals.

His contract has another two years to run and it is possible the story was leaked to prompt a new offer from Charlton.