Aston Villa line-up Brad Guzan replacement

Aston Villa are reportedly preparing a January move for Mainz goalkeeper Loris Karius.

The Premier League side, who have slumped to third from bottom in the league table following their 1-0 defeat to Stoke City at the weekend, are weighing up a move for the highly-rated Germany shot stopper in the New Year.

The 22-year-old, who was represented his country from Under-16 level through to the Under-21s, has made nine appearances in all competitions for the Bundesliga outfit so far this season.

Villans boss Tim Sherwood is understood to be concerned about the form of regular number one Brad Guzan at Villa Park, meaning the Midlands club are looking for alternative replacements during the January transfer window.

Karius, who kept 11 clean sheets in the German top-flight last term, was on Manchester City’s books between 2011 and 2012 before moving to his homeland after just four youth appearances.