Solskjaer Villa talks confirmed

Molde coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has returned to Norway after holding talks with Randy Lerner about Aston Villa's managerial vacancy.

Molde reveal manager is in discussions with Premier League club

Molde coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has returned to Norway after holding talks with Randy Lerner about Aston Villa's managerial vacancy. Villa's move for Solskjaer emerged in the last 24 hours after their club jet was photographed in Norway. Solskjaer flew to England for discussions with Lerner before returning home, with Molde granting permission for him to speak with Villa officials. "Molde Football Club is aware of interest and contact from Aston Villa, and is aware that Aston Villa and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer are talking together," said a statement from the Norwegian club. Molde chief executive Tarje Nordstrand Jacobsen added: "The management of Molde became aware of interest from Aston Villa just over two and a half days ago." Sources close to Villa insist they have other candidates, but the one time Manchester United striker is now odds-on favourite to replace Alex McLeish. A relative managerial novice, Solskjaer has had one season in charge at Molde, where he guided them to their first-ever league title.