Moussa Marega wants to be playing in the Premier League by the start of next season, according to reports.

The Porto striker has his heart set on a move to England, with Aston Villa believed to be one of the clubs keen on acquiring his services.

Dean Smith is believed to be in the market for a striker after first choice Wesley Moraes had his season ended on New Year’s Day.

Villa were linked with a move for the Mali international in the summer, but he would eventually stay with the Portuguese club.

The Express have reported that Marega was told a deal had been agreed with West Ham in the previous window, but for the second year in a row, it fell through.

With his contract expiring in 18 months, Porto are resigned to losing the striker who has an ‘ultimate ambition’ to play in England’s top flight.

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It is reported that the Hammers are still interested, but Villa have been monitoring him, most recently sending scouts to Portugal in December.

The report claims that Marega has a release clause of £26m, substantially lower than it was in the summer, but still at a value that could price Villa out of a move.

A whole host of strikers have been linked with a move to B6, with Jnathan Kodjia the only fit, senior striker available to Smith.