ASTON Villa have "stepped up their interest" in Cherries star Callum Wilson, according to reports.

Villa, who finished a point and a place above Cherries to preserve their Premier League status last season, are said to be looking to bolster their frontline.

And according to Mail Online, Wilson is "on Villa's striker shortlist for this window", alongside Brentford ace Ollie Watkins.

The report also claims both Newcastle United and Crystal Palace are "monitoring" the situation regarding Wilson, who signed a new four-year contract at Cherries last summer.

But the report goes on to say that while Cherries want to keep Wilson, the 28-year-old is keen to remain in the top-flight as he bids to regain his spot in the England squad ahead of next summer's European Championship.

Sky Sports have also claimed Villa are Newcastle are "doing battle" to sign Wilson.

Their report says talks have been held between Newcastle and Cherries, in a deal which could also see Matt Ritchie head back to Vitality Stadium in a player-plus-cash deal.

Wilson returned for pre-season training with Cherries last month, but missed Sunday's friendly defeat at Benfica due to an Achilles injury.

He has scored 67 goals in 187 appearances for the Dorset club since arriving from hometown team Coventry City in 2014.