Aston Villa have struggled in front of goal so far in pre-season but a new striker is not thought to be among the priorities before the transfer deadline on September 1st...
What's the word?
That is according to Birmingham Mail journalist Ashley Preece, who revealed the latest update on the Villans' plans this window during a recent Q&A with supporters.
After one fan asked whether a striker was a priority as Villa haven't been clinical or ruthless enough over in Australia, the reliable reporter responded with just seven words to dampen the mood back in the Midlands.
"Striker is not a top priority, no," he said.
Gutting update
This revelation will be sure to leave much of the Villa Park faithful absolutely gutted, if not fuming, as many want to see a new talisman through the door - especially after being linked to the likes of Jonathan David and even Luis Suarez.
Last season, Ollie Watkins (11) was the only player to hit double figures in the Premier League. Danny Ings lagged behind on seven goals, despite featuring in 30 of their 38 matches, as per WhoScored.
talkSPORT's Alex Crook believes that manager Steven Gerrard is "scouring the market" for a new frontman and that any arrival would seriously impact Ings' chances of remaining in his plans.
But that no longer appears to be the case.
It's true that Villa have looked futile in front of goal this pre-season. Against old foes Leeds United a few days ago, only a penalty from the aforementioned former Southampton man separated the two sides.
Preece also noted after the game that Ings may well have picked up an injury - an all too frequent situation. 'Appears to have an issue with his foot/ankle having received lengthy medical treatment,' he wrote.
If he is facing further time on the treatment table, then a new striker may certainly be required, if it wasn't already.
So, this latest update isn't likely to be good news for Villa supporters back in England.
AND in other news, Forget Coutinho: Gerrard could have a secret weapon at Villa in "very rare" £30m gem...