Aston Villa to win race for Le Havre defender Harold Moukoudi?

Aston Villa have reportedly emerged as frontrunners to complete the signing of Le Havre defender Harold Moukoudi.

A number of British clubs have been linked with the France Under-20 international this summer, and Celtic and Middlesbrough are said to hold an interest in securing a loan deal before the end of August.

However, Sky Sports News reports that Villa are likely to win the race for Moukoudi's signature, with the player having travelled to Birmingham for talks with the Championship outfit.

The West Midlands side have failed to keep a clean sheet in the league this season, while Moukoudi has helped Le Havre concede just two goals in five matches in Ligue 2.

Any transfer may have ramifications for Tommy Elphick, who could be given permission to complete a loan move to Queens Park Rangers as Villa look to reduce their wage bill.