English Premier League outfit Aston Villa are reportedly keeping an eye on Jamaican International Rodolph Austin, as they hunt a replacement for Central midfielder Gareth Barry, who moved away from the club to Manchester City earlier this week.

According to a report carried on www.skysports.com Austin has admitted a move to the Premier League club would be 'tempting', but reaffirmed his commitment to the Norwegian club.

Austin told Dagbladet: "All players want to play in the Premier League, so of course me too. I didn't know that Aston Villa were here, but even if it is tempting, I am keeping to the contract I have in Brann."

Villa scouts are said to have attended Brann's match versus Stromsgodse on Tuesday in order to have a closer look at the 23-year-old central midfielder.

Brann sports director Roald Bruun-Hansen confirmed that Villa scouts had been at a few games, but insisted no concrete offers have been made.

"We have given Aston Villa tickets for some of our games, and know of the interest.

"But there are no concrete talks, and far from any offers so we are keeping our pace. It is normal for clubs to look at players and keep an eye on the market at this time."