The Brentford striker is in demand having plundered 14 goals in 25 Championship appearances this season.
Crystal Palace, West Brom and West Ham have all been tracking the 24-year-old and he has recently spoke of his desire to play in the Premier League.
But Brentford's Championship rivals Villa have now emerged as the frontrunners to secure Hogan's signature.
Steve Bruce is desperate to land a striker following Rudy Gestede's departure earlier this month and with Ross McCormack banished from the first team squad following a bitter falling out with the Villa boss.