Steve Bruce's promotion chasing outfit have got their season off to a fantastic unbeaten start with 7 points from their opening 3 fixtures, but with time still remaining to complete loan deals Aston Villa's manager should be aiming to bolster his options.

The Villans could certainly benefit from further strength in depth across the park, but it seems Bruce is eager to add to his options in wide positions before the window is closed. However, a recent report from Teeside Live suggests that Villa are set to miss out on a dream summer target, namely Yannick Bolasie of Everton.

The report claims that Bolasie is at Rockliffe for talks regarding a potential transfer to Middlesbrough as they continue their hunt to secure a replacement for Adama Traore.

Considering the level of quality which Bolasie would inject into Villa's attack, the news will naturally arrive as a huge blow to everybody involved with the club, as Boro are bound to reap the rewards of welcoming him to the Riverside Stadium.

However, a recent report from the Daily Mirror suggests that Villa have an alternative lined up for Bolasie, namely Sheyi Ojo of Liverpool.

The 21-year-old winger spent the majority of the previous campaign on loan at Fulham where he struggled for regular opportunities due to injury problems and competition for a starting berth under Slavisa Jokanovic.

A record of just 4 goals and 2 assists from 24 appearances during his stint at Craven Cottage is far from ground-breaking, and with limited experience to bring to the table there's no doubt Middlesbrough look set to complete a far more productive deal.

With Villa and Boro predicted to go head-to-head in the race for a promotion place or even an automatic promotion spot this season, the recent transfer developments could well have given Tony Pulis a significant edge over Bruce as the pair bid to take their respective clubs back into the top-flight.

Aston Villa fans - thoughts? Let us know below!