Villa reject £10m offer from Stoke for captain James Chester

The Villa captain played every minute in the Championship for his side last season, as they made it to the play-off final, which they lost to Fulham.

Steve Bruce, who has been backed by the club's new owners, wants Chester to stay on.

The club are prepared to offer the 29-year-old a new contract in a statement of intent from new owners Nassef Sawiris and Wes Edens.

The club recently lost John Terry, who left the club when his contract expired, so they are keen to keep their top players.

Stoke are looking to add some Championship experience to their side, as they aim for a return to the Premier League.