Aston Villa has reportedly identified Southampton defender Matt Targett as a possible loan signing.

Targett helped Fulham to promotion to the Premier League last season, but the Cottagers were unable to push through the permanent signing of the left-back.

The 22-year-old has featured in Mark Hughes's 18-man squad in the top flight during the early stages of the campaign but according to the Daily Star, Villa want to give the player a chance of first-team football in the Championship.

Villa are able to make loan additions before the end of August, but it remains to be seen whether Southampton would entertain parting ways with the former England Under-21 international after allegedly turning down big-money offers earlier in the summer.

Alan Hutton has played on the left-hand side during the club's opening games, while Neil Taylor is currently providing backup.