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Could Aston Villa 's reported pursuit of Michy Batshuayi be about to take a fresh twist? The bookies seem to think so.

Dean Smith's side had been dealt a major blow in their pursuit of the Chelsea striker with the news that Premier League rivals Crystal Palace has been given the 'green-light' to complete a loan capture by Stamford Bridge boss Frank Lampard.

The 26-year old Belgium international has been linked with a loan move to Villa Park as Dean Smith looks to replace £22m summer signing Wesley who was last week ruled out for the rest of the season.

Villa have this month been faced with the tricky predicament of strengthening their squad as they target a push to steer clear of Premier League relegation while also avoiding breaching FFP regulations.

But with the deal seemingly disappearing over the horizon for Smith and his recruitment staff, SkyBet have performed a fast u-turn IN their betting odds surrounding the matter.

Palace were favourites to land the forward's signature in a deal that reports claim includes the full payment of his wages between now and the end of the season along with a rental fee.

However, Aston Villa have suddenly climbed the list to become the bookies favourites to seal a deal for the former Borussia Dortmund ace.

Smith's Villans are 6/5 to land Batshuayi's signature during the January transfer window, will former favourite Palace hot on their heels at 7/2.

And SkyBet see the contest as a true two horse race with Valencia (22/1), Marseille (25/1) and Manchester United (33/1) lagging behind to complete the betting.