Is Popov top of Lambert's shopping list?

Rumours abound in the Russian media that Aston Villa are interested in snapping up another Bulgarian international.

Miss Popov out of Rentaghost

Paul Lambert’s side may sign Kuban Krasnodar striker Ivelin Popov, if the stories are true.

If the name Popov sounds familiar, it may be because he scored against us playing for Litex Lovech a few years back.

Now plying his trade in the Russian Premier League, the 25 year old is one year into a three year deal and may cost as much as £ 3.5m if we were to swoop.

The player may be keen on a move to England, a proposed move to Blackburn Rovers in 2010 only fell through due to work permit issues. With 40 international caps to his credit, a permit shouldn't be an issue this time around.

Finalising any move may be dependent on offloading big earners such as Bent and Ireland from the squad.