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Report: Aston Villa make decision in the pursuit of Euro 2016 defender
By Harvey Byrne
Aston Villa have dropped their interest in Norwich defender Robbie Brady, according to a report.
Midlands publication The Birmingham Mail claim that boss Roberto Di Matteo has given up the hope of signing the Republic of Ireland ace, who can play as a left-back and a left-winger.
The Euro 2016 star has impressed at this summer’s European Championships and has subsequently attracted interest from Premier League sides Leicester, West Brom and Southampton.
He started all four games for his country in France and scored twice, including the winning goal against Italy which took Ireland past the group stages.
Villa have decided they won’t be able to compete with Premier League clubs who can offer higher wages as well as the lure of Champions League football in the case of Leicester.
By contrast, Villa are preparing for a Championship campaign following their relegation from the top flight.
The Manchester United youth graduate starred in 36 Premier League encounters for Norwich in the recently completed season scoring three goals and providing two assists, but he was unable to keep the Canaries in the Premier League.
In other Aston Villa news, Villa have intensified their pursuit of goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini.