EXCLUSIVE: Dean Smith ready to raid old club Aston Villa for duo as Norwich plan for next season

Norwich boss Dean Smith is looking at his former club Aston Villa for at least a couple of signings this summer, TEAMtalk understands.

Smith and the Canaries hierarchy are starting to plan for next season, and he is already aware of areas that he is looking to bolster – with two forwards from Villa very much on his radar.

One player who Smith is believed to be a big fan of is striker Cameron Archer.

The 20-year-old is currently on loan with Preston and is performing brilliantly with seven goals to his name.

North End have already registered their own interest for next season. However, so has Smith – who knows Archer well from their time together. He is also the man who gave him his debut.

Video: William Saliba wants to fight for his place at Arsenal (Teamtalk)

William Saliba wants to fight for his place at Arsenal

Sergej Milinkovic-Savic plays down rumours to Manchester United

Mo Salah still top of Barcelona wish list this summer

Does Christian Pulisic need to be sold by Chelsea?

Levy must spend to keep Conte at Tottenham

Van de Beek buying into Frank Lampard's project at Everton

Villa, though, won’t be rushed as boss Steven Gerrard has made it clear he wants to see him in pre-season training before deciding whether to let him leave.

Smith is also keen to hijack another possible Championship rival in the shape of Stoke City as they attempt to keep hold of another Villa starlet in Jaden Phiolgene-Bidace.

The left-sided winger, 20, has performed very well for Michael O’Neill’s side. To that end, the Potters chief would like him back for next season. Smith, however, is also ready to throw his hat into the ring.

Norwich are back in action on Saturday when they, ironically, head to Villa Park to take on Gerrard’s men.

The