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Aston Villa must be patient for Olivier Giroud

Villa are keen on Olivier Giroud, but must wait to strike any January loan deal for the Chelsea striker.

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The France international has emerged as a prime target for Dean Smith following the loss of record signing Wesley for the rest of the season.

But Chelsea have told potential suitors Giroud, who has only started two Premier League games this season, will not be allowed to leave Stamford Bridge until they have signed a replacement.

The same applies to Michy Batshuayi, over whom Villa also hold an interest, though it is Giroud who is thought to currently be their preferred option. Newcastle are also reported to have contacted Chelsea over both strikers.

January is shaping up to be a pivotal month to Villa’s chances of beating the drop and they are also seeking reinforcements in midfield and in goal.

A move for Joe Hart is thought to be unlikely, however, particularly with Burnley reluctant to let the former England No.1 join a rival in the relegation fight.

Smith held constructive talks with chief executive Christian Purslow and sporting director Jesus Garcia Pitarch on Friday, with the trio expected to meet again today.

Villa are keen to get business done quickly but asked if he expected any signings before Sunday’s Premier League visit of Manchester City, Smith replied: “I am not sure. I would like to but these things take time. We will try to do things as quickly as we can.

“We have to priorities. Obviously with the amount of important games coming up, we want to recruit quickly.”