Aston Villa have made contact with Steve Bruce regarding their managerial vacancy, it is understood.
It is thought the former Birmingham and Hull manager is now considered the leading contender for the position along with current caretaker boss Steve Clarke.
Another favourite for the job, David Wagner, appears to be out of the reckoning after his chairman at Huddersfield, Dean Hoyle, suggested he would not be leaving the West Yorkshire club.
Villa are looking for a new manager after sacking Roberto Di Matteo earlier this week, just 12 games into his reign, following a poor start to the season.