Aston Villa boss Steve Bruce is set to have another limited budget when the January transfer window opens for business, with the club restricted by Financial Fair Play limitations following a year of big spending.

New additions are needed to the squad however, and Bruce will have to wheel and deal as he did in the summer if he is to secure the right targets to lead the Villans back to the Premier League.

A striker is top of the list, with star man Jonathan Kodjia ruled out for a while, and with a number of names linked, but Bruce has today dispelled rumours of a swoop for Sunderland striker Lewis Grabban, who is on loan from Bournemouth - which may disappoint Villa fans.

“I have said for three months I am looking at loans,” Bruce was quoted by The Birmingham Mail.

“How can I be linked with Lewis Grabban? I haven’t got the money. Put a line through it."

The Verdict

After days of speculation linking the player with Villa Park, this should put the possibility of a transfer beyond all doubt.

Of course a lot can change in football very quickly, but this deal is dead in the water as Bruce said.

The funds are simply not there, and Bruce has reiterated that only loan signings will be made in the new year.

Grabban is a lost cause for Villa, but appears likely to move on this winter regardless.

Villa fans, who should you target instead? Have your say below...

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