GERARD Houllier is monitoring Monaco forward Dieumerci Mbokani as Villa intensify their search for fresh firepower during the January transfer window.

Mbokani is among Houllier’s strike targets with John Carew continuing his first-team exile and increasingly unlikely to play for the claret and blues again.

Villa are not yet ready to swoop for the 25-year-old Congo international who is also believed to be interesting Premier League rivals Albion and Everton

But Houllier could step up his interest in Mbokani later in the month once his pursuit of two definite defensive and midfield targets has concluded. Houllier confirmed yesterday that talks to sign Lyon midfielder Jean Makoun and loan Manchester City left-back Wayne Bridge are currently ongoing.

However, a new striker is set to become a pressing priority for Villa with Emile Heskey banned for three games, including today’s FA Cup tie at Sheffield United.