Aston Villa favourites to sign defending Premier League champions’ out-of-favour striker

Aston Villa have reportedly emerged as the favourites to sign France international striker Loic Remy.

The Premier League side, who remain rock-bottom of the standings following Boxing Day’s 1-1 draw against West Ham United, want to bring in the Chelsea forward to Villa Park in their bid to stave off relegation come May.

The 28-year-old, who has 31 international caps for his country, has scored one league goal in eight league appearances for the Blues so far this season.

Remy; who cost Chelsea around £10.5m from Queens Park Rangers last August, is more likely to seal a loan move away from Stamford Bridge initially after the arrival of interim boss Guus Hiddink following Jose Mourinho’s dismissal earlier this week.

However Villa boss Remi Garde is set to face stiff competition to seal Remy’s signature given English top-flight rivals Crystal Palace, Southampton, Swansea City and West Ham are also interested in his services next month.