Notts County chief Sven Goran Eriksson is ready to boost their strike-force by signing Aston Villa striker Marlon Harewood.

The News of the World says Harewood started his career for the Magpies' arch-rivals Nottingham Forest, hitting 55 goals in 196 games.

But Harewood may be prepared to drop down the leagues as County - with their new mega-rich Middle East owners and Eriksson as a director - are the glamour team of the lower divisions.

Newcastle United were also recently credited with an interest in the Villa forward.