Norwich City boss Paul Lambert has reportedly emerged as the new favourite to take over at Aston Villa.
The Scot has refused to publicly discuss his future at Carrow Road, but is said to be interested in holding talks with Villa's owners, according to The Mirror.
Former Manchester United striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was tipped to replace the ousted Alex McLeish, only for the Norwegian to turn down the post for "family reasons".
Villa recently released Emile Heskey, Carlos Cuellar and Brad Guzan after the trio's contracts expired.
The Midlands club have yet to make an official approach to Lambert.