Tenacious midfielder Melo is currently with the Brazil squad in South Africa for the Confederations Cup but when he returns it is thought that he will be the subject of high interest in Europe.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is believed to be a keen admirer of the 25 year-old, who he sees as a flashback to former Gunners midfielder Gilberto Silva.
Melo would be just the job for Villa, though, as he is not only tough-tackling but also possesses a good aptitude for passing football.
Combining flair with fight, could Melo be better than Barry?