Championship promotion chasers Aston Villa are set to miss out on the signing of striker Leonardo Ulloa, according to a report in the Birmingham Mail.

The impressive former Brighton striker has been struggling for games at Leicester City this season and looks set to be on the move in January, with Villa manager Steve Bruce hoping to complete a deal for the Argentine before the window closes.

However, it now appears the Ulloa is set to sign for Premier League club Crystal Palace, with Roy Hodgson seemingly guiding the Eagles to Premier League safety after a woeful start to the campaign under Dutchman Frank De Boer.

The news of Ulloa joining Palace will be a big blow to Bruce and his transfer aspirations in January, with the Villa manager hoping to use the loan market to wheel and deal after admitting he will not be going out and spending big money as the club have done previously.

The form of Scott Hogan has been a boost of late at Villa Park, but it will still represent a big blow for Bruce with Ulloa seemingly opting to stay put in the top flight.

Villa fans, what do you think? Do you need another striker? Let us know in the comments!

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