Villa in talks with Solskjaer

Aston Villa are in talks with Molde coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for the Premier League club’s vacant managerial position.

A former Manchester United star, Solskjaer is to jet into Birmingham on Friday to meet with Villa owner Randy Lerner over the prospect of taking over first-team duties.

The 39-year-old is believed to have been flown over in Lerner’s own private plane to meet with the American entrepreneur, and he is now the frontrunner to succeed Alex McLeish as boss.

Solskjaer’s current club – who participate in the Norwegian top flight – released a statement via the club’s official website: “Molde Football Club is aware of interest and contact from Aston Villa, and is aware that Aston Villa and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer are talking together.”

Solskjaer led Molde to a historic double this season in his first full campaign in charge, and should he leave to take over Villa, he will be giving up the opportunity to manage in the Champions League next season.

He has previously spoken of his desire to manage Manchester United one day, having departed his role in charge of United’s reserve team to take up the position in Norway.