Aston Villa set to make formal approach for Rangers boss Steven Gerrard
Villa hope to hold talks with Steven Gerrard over their vacant managerial post in the next 48 hours.
Gerrard is high on the Villa’s shortlist to replace Dean Smith and a formal approach to Rangers, his current club, is now expected.
Several other candidates have been under consideration with Villa's board seeking an appointment who can take the team to the next level.
Belgium manager Roberto Martinez is thought to be keen on a Premier League return and remains an alternative, while the club have made enquiries over several Europe-based contenders.
Interest in Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl, among the early favourites after Smith was axed on Sunday, has cooled while Denmark chief Kasper Hjulmand ruled himself out of the running on Tuesday.
Villa are thought to have made informal enquiries into Graham Potter’s availability but the chances of prising him away from Brighton are believed to be remote.
Though Villa are confident of having a new man in place when they host Brighton in the Premier League on Saturday week, the club have been determined to carry out a proper process in finding the new boss.
