Speaking to Norwegian broadcaster TV2, rumoured Aston Villa transfer target, Josh King, has opened the door to potentially leaving current club Bournemouth in January.

What's the word?

Reports in recent weeks and months had suggested the Cherries striker has been on Villa's radar, with some outlets even claiming that a late, deadline-day beating move was on the cards.

That however, failed to transpire, with King unable to secure a move away from the Vitality Stadium. However, his recent comments suggests that he is already lining up an exit in the January transfer window, and that will surely alert the Villa hierarchy to a possible deal.

He said (as quoted by The Birmingham Mail): "If you had asked me two months ago if I thought I would be in Bournemouth (now), I would have answered 110 per cent no.

"It is a bit special to be a football player who has nine months left on his contract. We'll see if I go now or in January. Had it been up to me, I would have already signed for a club and started the season, played four games and been in top form."

Lange's work isn't done yet

Having been unable to secure a last-minute deal for King in the final hours of the transfer window, Johan Lange's attentions must already be turned January, when he will have another opportunity to lure the Norway international to Villa Park.

The fact King, once described by former Cherries boss Eddie Howe as being "unique", has openly suggested a winter exit is on the cards, and also that he will only have a few months remaining on his current contract at Bournemouth, further strengthens Villa's hand.

Lange can secure Dean Smith a vital addition to his forward ranks, taking the pressure off new boy Ollie Watkins somewhat. King's arrival could be the kind of new signing that ensures Villa's bubble doesn't burst in the New Year.

And in other news, Aston Villa dodged a bullet by not signing this Premier League man for £5m.