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Aston Villa’s search for a technical director has now become a two-horse race.

Owner Tony Xia is in discussions with both candidates and is hoping to make a breakthrough before the start of the Championship campaign.

At this stage their identities remain private but the Birmingham Mail understands that Xia is confident of landing his preferred target.

Both men have experience in the global market and the eventual appointment will be seen as a major coup for a second-tier side.

Boss Roberto Di Matteo has been involved in the selection process and is comfortable operating under Xia’s outlined structure.

During his time at Albion, the Italian worked alongside ex-sporting director Dan Ashworth so he’s familiar with the set-up.

A new arrival will mark the end of Paddy Riley’s time in that position of power and his next move is not yet known.

Xia is keen to get a technical director in to improve Villa’s record in the transfer window following a series of failed signings in recent times.

He also wants a man with football experience to add to the impressive recent appointments of Di Matteo, his coaching team and chief executive Keith Wyness.

When asked about the role recently, Wyness said: “It is something we’re looking at yes.

“We are just taking a little bit of time to assess who we need for that role.

“Also with the chairman’s plans for other potential clubs internationally, that’s an important role we are trying to blend together.”

Once that position is filled Villa are confident they will have a vibrant off-field team capable of making up for some of the mistakes in the past.

The return...