The midlands club saw wages increase to almost ?80million last season - an increase of ?9million and they now account for 88% of the club's ?90million turnover.
But Villa sources are confident they will comply with UEFA's financial fair play regulations by the time they are in force by the beginning of the 2013-2014 campaign.
The regulations will force clubs to live within their means, something Villa insist they are striving to achieve despite the backing of American owner Randy Lerner.
Villa manager Gerard Houllier was made aware of the situation when he took charge nearly six months ago.
The aim is not to reduce the number of quality players at his disposal but to trim the squad to ensure those on sizeable wages while making little meaningful contribution are moved on.
Source: PA
Source: PA