Aston Villa have emerged as surprise favourites to land former West Ham United midfielder Alessandro Diamanti.

According to reports, Villa have been in contact with the Italian´s current club Guangzhou Everglade over the proposed transfer.

Italian publication Gazzetta Dello Sport have furthered these reports, suggesting that the player is keen on returning to Europe and that Villa are in advance talks to secure his signature.

Villa will have to fend off opposition from Premier League new boys Watford who are believed to also be interested in Diamanti.