A new striker is at the top of Bruce’s wish list due to Jonathan Kodjia’s ankle injury but a permanent addition is unlikely. 

“You would love to be in a position where you can go and target a centre-forward with millions to spend but we haven't got that luxury,” the Villa boss said.

“We'll have to be a bit creative and see if anyone out there can give us a hand. I still think we are under the situation of FFP.

“We know how difficult it has been. That's been the case for the last two transfer windows. It's difficult but we've managed to cope with it. 

“We've got good players in the squad here and that's the most important thing.” 

A permanent deal for Sam Johnstone is also on the radar, although that could be put off until the summer because Manchester United look set to extend his contract to avoid losing him on a free transfer. 

An attacking midfielder could also be sourced because Tottenham have a recall option on Josh Onomah.

Express Sport brings you the complete list of players linked with a move to Aston Villa in the January transfer window. 

Aston Villa transfer news tracker: Who could Steve Bruce sign in January window?

Sam Johnstone

Sam Johnstone is on a season-long loan at Villa Park from Manchester United.

He has impressed between the sticks and a permanent deal is wanted. 

Johnstone’s current deal at Old Trafford expires at the end of the campaign but an option for a further season is set to be taken up. 

Bruce has admitted the club will go all out to make his move permanent.

“We will do everything in our power to get him here permanently,” he said.

“He is going to find it difficult at United to break through because of what they have got so we are hopeful.”

Rolando Aarons

According to the Mirror, Newcastle winger Rolando Aarons is under consideration.

The 22-year-old is out of favour at St James’ Park, making just two substitute appearances in the Premier League this term.

Premier League duo Crystal Palace and Huddersfield are also reportedly interested in Aarons. 

Dominick Drexler

According to German publication Kicker, Holstein Kiel attacking midfielder Dominick Drexler is a target.

Villa Park bosses have reportedly put out feelers about his availability.

The 27-year-old has been in sensational form for the Bundesliga 2 high-flyers this season, scoring eight goals and providing five assists.

Newcastle and Cardiff are also interested. 

Oli McBurnie

Swansea striker Oli McBurnie has been frequently linked with a loan move.

According to the Daily Star, the 21-year-old ‘likely to join’ next month. 

McBurnie is on the fringes of the Swans’ first team. 

Lewis Grabban 

A deal that hinders Championship rivals Sunderland could see Bournemouth recall Lewis Grabban from his Stadium of Light loan spell before flogging him to Villa, according to The Sun.

The 29-year-old striker has bagged 11 Championship goals this term but the Cherries have an option to bring him back in January.

A loan move is likely to be the best Villa can offer but a promotion bonus or agreeing to sign him permanently in the summer could swing the deal.