Aston Villa are planning a January bid for Mainz goalkeeper Loris Karius casting further doubt over the future of Brad Guzan, reports The Daily Telegraph.
Tim Sherwood eventually stuck with Guzan, having considered replacing him over the summer.
However, Guzan’s form hasn’t improved since the start of the season and Villa have received glowing reviews of Karius following a scouting trip by former Manchester City goalkeeper Tony Coton.
The 22-year-old was formerly on the books of City before returning to Germany and Villa are still hoping to lure the U21 international back to the Premier League despite still having three years left to run on his current deal with Mainz.
Mainz have struggled for consistency in the Bundesliga this season having won four and lost four of their opening eight league matches. Only three other goalkeepers have made more saves than Karius in that period (34).
For more stats on Loris Karius, click here to visit his WhoScored player page