Aston Villa are close to signing Ghent goalkeeper Lovre Kalinic for £7 million in an ambitious move by head coach Dean Smith.

Kalinic is expected to have a medical at Villa's training ground on Thursday with the two clubs in advanced talks over a permanent deal.

A Croatia international, Kalinic almost joined Villa nearly three years ago when Remi Garde was in charge but he is poised to finally complete a move to the Championship club in the next few days.

Villa have targeted a new No 1 amid doubts over summer signing Orjan Nyland and believe Kalinic, 28, will provide the experience required in Smith's bid for promotion. It is understood Ghent are seeking between €5-10 million.

Kalinic flew into Birmingham on Wednesday and should complete the formalities of his move before this weekend's game against Leeds. He will not be eligible to play until the January transfer window opens, however.

Smith is also targeting a centre-half and a left-back next month after guiding Villa towards the play-off places.

Tammy Abraham's future remains uncertain with Chelsea considering whether to sell the England international. Villa are relaxed about the situation and could still have Abraham on loan for the remainder of the season if they remain in contention for promotion.