Aston Villa manager Roberto Di Matteo is linked with Graham Dorrans swoop

Roberto Di Matteo is reportedly keen to make former Albion midfielder Graham Dorrans his first signing at Villa Park.

The 29-year-old worked with the Italian at The Hawthorns but ended his seven-year stint with the Baggies when he moved to Norwich last year.

However, he struggled to keep his place in Alex Neil's starting line-up during the second half of the season which, like Villa's, ended in relegation from the Premier League.

Even though he has one year left on his contract with the Canaries, it's believed Dorrans is open to a move away from Carrow Road.

The Scottish international had his best season at Albion under Di Matteo in 2009/10 when the Baggies were promoted to the Premier League from the Championship, scoring 18 goals in all competitions and finishing the season as top scorer.

Steve Clarke, who is expected to be confirmed Di Matteo's No.2 today, has also worked with Dorrans.

While the midfielder never hit the same heights in the Premier League, the pair are believed to be confident in his abilities in the Championship.