Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has confirmed that he has held an "informal chat" with Aston Villa over the possibility of becoming their new manager.

The Premier League club are currently searching for a new boss following the sacking of Alex McLeish on Monday.

Despite speculation claiming that a deal had been made between Villa and Molde manager Solskjaer, the former Manchester United striker has played down such talk.

"I can confirm that I have spoken to Aston Villa. There were no negotiations, but first an informal chat. They also have other candidates they want to talk to," he told Romsdals Budstikke.

"I wanted to show respect for one of the big clubs in the Premier League by meeting their questions about the initial call. I am the manager of the MFK and have only had a casual conversation."

Villa chiefs revealed on Friday that there are other candidates for the role, but were unwilling to reveal any names.