Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is focusing his energies on signing Tottenham fullback Pascal Chimbonda.
The Birmingham Mail says O'Neill has taken an interest in French defender Chimbonda after being told by Arsene Wenger he had "no chance" of signing Justin Hoyte.
Chimbonda's position at Spurs is in doubt following the signing of Wales international Chris Gunter and continued interest in Rangers full-back Alan Hutton.