Aston Villa remain quietly confident that they will secure a deal for Leicester City’s Leonardo Ulloa but will have to be patient in their pursuit of the striker.

The former Brighton striker has been a key target for Steve Bruce since the window opened and a move seemed possible given Ulloa has barely featured for the Foxes.

However, with doubts over the future of another Leicester forward, Islam Slimani, the Premier League side are waiting to see how things develop.

Newcastle and Monaco had been linked with the Algerian striker and Slimani would fetch a significant fee which would make him a more attractive sale.

Should both Ulloa and Slimani leave, it means Claude Puel would only have three senior strikers on his books, which means selling both is highly unlikely.

Yet, the Birmingham Mail have revealed Aston Villa remain hopeful that the deal for Ulloa will be finalised, even if they know Leicester will delay making a decision.

Should the 31-year old remain at the King Power Stadium, or indeed head elsewhere, Villa have alternative options. One of those is Burnley striker Nakhi Wells who has struggled to play for the Clarets this season.

The Verdict

Ulloa is clearly the man that Steve Bruce wants to sign, so even if it takes another week it will be worth it in the end.

It’s easy to see why he wants the player, as Ulloa has proven himself in the Championship before and seems to perfectly suit the way Villa play.

Jonathan Kodjia’s season-ending injury has increased the need for a striker and it is clear Villa are desperate to bring one in this month.

Thoughts, Villa fans? Let us know in the comments below.