Parma have confirmed they have received an approach from Aston Villa regarding signing French international midfielder Johan Micoud.
Villa manager John Gregory is desperate to bolster his midfield department and Micoud is one of his prime targets.
The player, who was a member of France's squads for the 1998 World Cup and Euro 2000 triumphs, is desperate for regular first-team football to boost his chances of being part of his country's 2002 World Cup plans.
It is understood that Micoud could initially join Villa on loan before completing a Stg£7.5 million move - if he sees his future with the midlands club.
Parma sporting director Enrico Fedele admitted: "I do not deny that there is a contact with Aston Villa.
"They (Villa) may be the right solution for this player who has to play regularly otherwise he would risk not being part of the next World Cup.
"He refused to join Torino and Nantes - now we all hope he decides soon in this case."
PA