Ollie Watkins has moved a step closer to his Premier League move after Brentford secured the signing of Ivan Toney from Peterborough United.
Toney, who was the top goalscorer in League One last season, has joined the Bees on a five-year deal for an initial fee of £5million, paving the way for Watkins to seal his dream move to the top flight.
Former manager Dean Smith is keen to bring Championship player of the season Watkins to Aston Villa, with the west Londoners demanding up to £25million to sanction a deal.
Villa had been frustrated by progress to this point, but are hopeful that the arrival of Toney will see the pace picked up with the opening day of the season less than two weeks away.
Crystal Palace have also been tracking Watkins since last summer, but are also keen on a deal for Mainz forward Jean-Philippe Mateta and have already completed the signing of Eberechi Eze from Queens Park Rangers.
Brentford are also expecting offers for winger Said Benrahma before the window closes next month, and will also hold out for around £25m to the Algerian go.