Steve Bruce will consider a loan move for Robert Snodgrass after West Ham told the winger he can leave.
The 29-year-old only moved to the Hammers for £10million in January but has failed to make an impact.
Aston Villa cannot afford a permanent deal but would be keen on a loan if West Ham agree.
Bruce signed Snodgrass for Hull City and would jump at the chance of working with him again.
The Villa boss tried to sign the Scot in the last transfer window but couldn’t compete with the competition from the Premier League.
Things might be different this time around, though, with Snodgrass looking for regular game-time after a stop-start period in London.
He has only started eight matches since his big-money move seven months ago, providing two assists but failing to score.
And he was left out of the squad for the opening game defeat against Manchester United on Sunday and is expected to leave before the transfer window closes.
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Sam Gallagher is also on the radar and Villa are competing with eleven other Championship clubs for his signature.
Southampton are prepared to let him leave on loan once again and Bruce is hoping to pounce.
"There's one or two things bubbling over so we'll see what happens," the manager said.
"It’s been difficult to bring in additions and we won’t be spending millions like I’ve said repeatedly now.
"That’s not been the answer for year after year.
"’m very pleased with the squad that I have assembled but we could do with a little bit of help up top."