Villa star Richard Dunne has admitted international team-mates Stephen Ireland and Robbie Keane could be joining him at the club this summer.

Dunne admits to speaking to Keane informally about the Republic of Ireland striker’s future plans “a couple of times,” now that the former Wolves forward’s career is back in the melting pot.

The Villa defender also threw out a welcome to Ireland, the Manchester City midfielder who has now admitted to wanting a new club after becoming frustrated at his lack of first football at Eastlands.

Both players are within the compass of the club’s financial reach and are sure to have been discussed behind closed doors at manager Martin O’Neill’s camp.

Dunne’s comments, given to the Irish media during the squad’s get together for friendlines this week, could suggest they high up the Villa agenda for this season’s transfer dealings.

Midfielder Ireland is expected to figure in the negotiations which are sure to be held after the World Cup when mega-rich City resume their quest for James Milner, for whom they have already have had a £20million offer rejected.

Dunne admits: “Stephen had a bit of a stop and start season last year, after the previous year when he was unbelievable.

“He will say he wants to get more games and play more regularly, and if that’s not at City he’d be more than welcome at Villa.

“Everyone in the league knows how good he can be and he’d be a great addition to any squad.”

Dunne has been following Keane’s situation with interest and has spoken to his pal about the possibility of a move to Villa Park.

Certainly, the big central defender is convinced that Ireland’s record goalscorer would be a serious addition.

He said: “It would be great. The sort of player we need is someone who can play in the hole and link midfield and the forward line.

“If Robbie came to us, it would be great.”

But less positive for Villa are the growing signs of resignation that Milner will be lost to one of their rivals this summer.

Dunne admitted: “As much as we want to keep James, we know he’s a much sought after player and it might prove difficult.”