Lindelof set for Aston Villa as transfer deadline nears

Victor Lindelof, the 31 year old Swedish centre back who left Manchester United this summer, is poised to sign for Aston Villa as the Premier League transfer window nears its close, but remains linked with a move to Italy amid conflicting reports about his next destination. Several accounts say Villa have accelerated talks and expect Lindelof to undergo a medical in the next 48 hours, while other reports from Italy say the defender has his heart set on Fiorentina and has rejected an offer from Everton.

Sources close to the negotiations say Villa view Lindelof as experienced cover for first choice centre backs Pau Torres, Ezri Konsa and Tyrone Mings and are aiming to complete the deal on a free transfer before Monday's deadline. One report indicated the player is expected to sign a two year contract. The club have been limited in recruitment this summer because of Profitability and Sustainability rules and have generated funds through player sales, most notably the departure of academy graduate Jacob Ramsey.

Italian reports claim Fiorentina are also in talks for Lindelof and that the former United defender would welcome a reunion with goalkeeper David De Gea, who joined the...