Barnsley pair Conor Hourihane and James Bree heading for Villa Park

ASTON Villa were tonight closing in on signing Barnsley duo James Bree and Conor Hourihane.
Barnsley's Conor Hourihane, left, and James Bree chase Leeds United's Souleymane Doukara  during Saturday's win for the Reds (Picture: Bruce Rollinson).Barnsley's Conor Hourihane, left, and James Bree chase Leeds United's Souleymane Doukara  during Saturday's win for the Reds (Picture: Bruce Rollinson).
Barnsley's Conor Hourihane, left, and James Bree chase Leeds United's Souleymane Doukara during Saturday's win for the Reds (Picture: Bruce Rollinson).

Manager Steve Bruce set his sights on the double swoop at the start of the transfer window and his overtures finally seem to have paid off.

It is understood both Bree and Hourihane were in the Midlands on Tuesday.

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The deal to sign 19-year-old full-back Bree is believed to be nearer completion, but Villa are confident of getting both deals through before the weekend.

Barnsley boss Paul Heckingbottom will move to replace the pair once confirmation has been received.

Leicester City’s Matty James is understood to be on Barnsley’s radar.

He is available for loan following a year out after rupturing his cruciate knee ligament.