Aston Villa's Premier League campaign is yet to commence but there is plenty of optimism in the Midlands.

Dean Smith's side have had a productive pre-season where they've beaten both Arsenal and Manchester United.

Ollie Watkins has already scored for the club too after hitting the ground running on his first outing last weekend.

For a club-record signing, that should bring the striker great confidence that he has what it takes to perform at a higher level.

Watkins netted 26 times in the Championship last term but he is still yet to play in the Premier League. It'll be fascinating to see how gets on against Sheffield United in a week's time. 

However, before then, the Villans may well have concluded a host of transfers.

Deals to sign Emi Martinez and Bertrand Traore are on the verge of being completed while another striker could arrive.

Dean Smith

Sporting director Johan Lange submitted a bid for Bournemouth's Josh King last week while there is fresh interest in another forward.

According to The Mirror, Aston Villa are keen on adding Liverpool attacker Divock Origi to their ranks.

They'll face fierce competition for his signature with Newcastle, Fulham and Brighton also in the race for his signature.

In the last few days, Turkish outfit Fenerbahce have also entered the fray to sign the Belgian.

They have made enquiries about taking Origi on loan, and have received responses that Liverpool are willing to do a deal of that nature if it includes an obligation to buy. 

The Reds currently value the 25-year-old at £30m.

Divock Origi

GIVEMESPORT'S Matt Dawson says...

This would be absolutely perfect for Aston Villa. Why? Because they are crying out for a proven Premier League striker.

The additions of Wesley and Mbwana Samatta last season were pretty woeful as the duo scored a combined six goals all season.

That is a woeful record for two players that the club paid in the region of £30m for. 

Watkins is a magnificent acquisition but considering his lack of top-flight experience, is still a risk. Origi, on the other hand, would be a pretty safe bet.

Origi

He has 91 Premier League appearances to his name and has scored 34 goals in all competitions for Liverpool.

Hailed as an "outstanding worker" by Vincent Kompany, Origi is a player who always gets his head down no matter the situation.

He has often been on the bench for Liverpool but has come up some crucial goals - including strikes against Barcelona and then in the Champions League final during the 2018/19 season.

Lange may have to pay a pretty penny to get this deal over the line, but it would be worth it for the extra firepower.