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Nigel Pearson has held a second round of talks with managerless Aston Villa as he closes in on taking charge at the relegated crisis club.

Former Leicester chief Pearson, 52, has been out of work since last June after being axed by the Foxes' Thai owners.

But he remains highly-regarded in the game for his work at the Premier League champions-elect. Villa are looking for their fourth manager in 14 months as they bid to bounce back next season to the top-flight.

Mirror Sport understands Pearson has since met new Villa chairman Steve Hollis twice for constructive talks.

(Image: Neville Williams)

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His old backroom staff remain at Leicester where Steve Walsh and Craig Shakespeare are set to sign new deals.

But Pearson is believed to be ready to work with current Villa caretaker Eric Black, who is in situ and requires no compensation.

Pearson has been given a glowing recommendation about Black from his old superior Steve Bruce.

(Image: Michael Regan)

Hull manager Bruce himself is among the other potential Villa candidates if bookies favourite Pearson gets a better offer from Middlesbrough.

But despite takeover talk at Villa Park, where embattled owner Randy Lerner wants out, Mirror Sport understands no saviour is on the horizon yet.

In pictures - Villa 2-4 Southampton: