Aston Villa have agreed a deal with Leicester City that could see Stan Collymore on his way to Filbert Street.

The agreement, which now rests on the outcome of a medical on the 29-year-old striker, involves no initial transfer fee. Villa's asking price of £3m had been the major stumbling block to a move.

Villa will instead receive £250,000 if Collymore makes 25 first team appearances for the Foxes, rising to £500,000 for 50.

It represents a massive loss for the club, which spent more than £7m when it bought him from Liverpool.

Collymore is now discussing personal terms with the Worthington Cup finalists and should undergo the necessary medical in the very near future.

Leicester manager Martin O'Neill has an injury crisis on his hands, which the controversial striker could help alleviate.

In the absence of injured strikers Emile Heskey and Tony Cottee, Matt Elliott and Muzzy Izzet were used as a makeshift front pairing for the Leicester's last Premiership clash, against Middlesbrough.

"I think if Stan were to sign for anyone, he would feel this is his last chance," said O'Neill.

"It's as simple as that and therefore I would expect his inspiration to come from within."

During his time at Villa, Collymore has complained of suffering from stress and depression, causing him to miss much of last season. He has also failed to make a first team appearances for the Premiership side this season, instead playing on loan to Fulham for a short period