Former Hull City boss Steve Bruce has held talks with Aston Villa's chief executive on three occasions since Wednesday and is now waiting to hear back from the Championship outfit.
Bruce parted ways with Hull earlier this season; he led the Tigers to promotion from the Championship last term and would be available to take up the Villa job.
The former defender appears to be a serious contender to take over at Villa Park as, according to the BBC, he has held talks with Villa's chief executive Keith Wyness on three occasions since Wednesday.
Bruce's last contact with Villa came on Friday, in the form of a 20 minute conversation.
He has yet to have a formal interview with Aston Villa and has been told the process of appointing a new manager is ongoing.
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Roberto Di Matteo's assistant Steve Clarke is currently filling in as boss and has been tipped as a strong contender to take the role on a permanent basis.
Bruce had a spell in charge of Villa's fierce rivals Birmingham City between 2001 and 2007, which may make him an unpopular choice with sections of the Villa supporters.
The 55-year-old also counts Sheffield United, Huddersfield Town, Wigan Athletic, Crystal Palace and Sunderland amongst the clubs he has previously managed.
