Aston Villa's move for managerial target Nigel Pearson is stalling.

The Birmingham Mail says Pearson remains the front runner for the Aston Villa managerial vacancy - despite Steve Bruce's odds tumbling - but the appointment is still being frustrated by the takeover situation.

Pearson has met with Steve Hollis as the claret and blue board negotiate their way through the tricky circumstances of getting a new boss and a new owner for the relegated club.

The odds of Hull boss Bruce replacing Remi Garde have come in to 5-2 with some bookmakers, but Pearson is still a favourite with the bookies and the Villa hierarchy.