According to French outlet France Football, Aston Villa are one of the contenders to sign promising Le Havre defender Harold Moukoudi. 

Currently plying his trade in Ligue 2, the France under-2o international is on the radar of some of Europe's biggest clubs such as German giants Borussia Dortmund. The 21-year-old is clearly a hugely promising player, and would be an unbelievable coup if The Villans were able to bring him to Villa Park.

Now it is no secret that Aston Villa desperately need to strengthen their defence this January, as it has been their Achilles heel so far this season, particularly the centre-back position. This has seen the likes of midfielder Mile Jedinak and fullback Alan Hutton occupy the vacant position, to not a huge amount of success. The arrival of Moukouki would be a quantum leap in the right direction for The Lions.

Moreover, if Dean Smith were able to beat a club of the status of Borussia Dortmund to the 6ft 3 defender's signature, it would be a clear signal of intent from Villa that they are not only focused on securing promotion back to the Premier League, but becoming a force in the top division again, with a young team with a very bright future.

This would be a brilliant signing for so many reasons, and one that Villa should go all out to secure. Not only would it go a long way in creating a much more resolute defence, but it is a statement signing that shows Villa have a great future.