Tom Heaton appears to be closing in on his Burnley exit.

Reports in the national media indicate that the Clarets have accepted an improved £8 million bid from newly-promoted Aston Villa for the 33-year-old Turf Moor captain.

The England man ended the season as Sean Dyche’s No.1 but it appears Burnley have taken the decision to get maximum value for a player who is entering the final 12 months of his contract and has turned down an initial offer of a new deal.

Heaton’s departure would not leave the Clarets short of goalkeeping options with fellow internationals Nick Pope and Joe Hart also showing up well during pre-season.

Heaton and Hart played 45 minutes apiece in the 6-1 win over Nice with Nick Pope potentially returning against Parma this Saturday after a groin issue.

After the latest friendly victory, Dyche gave no indication of any imminent departures and insisted he does not have to sell players to bring new ones in.

“We don't have to (move anyone out before bringing anyone in),” he said.

“If we do that there will be reasons why but we don't have to.”