Aston Villa are close to signing Lille midfielder Idrissa Gueye, according to ESPN. It is believed the midfielder flew into England today for talks regarding a potential move after a fee of £9 million was agreed. Tom Cleverley's decision to move to Everton has left Sherwood seeking some reinforcements in midfield and Senegal international Gueye could fill that role. With some uncertainty surrounding the future of reported Manchester City target Fabian Delph, Gueye could be an important addition to Sherwood's squad ahead of the upcoming campaign. If the move does go ahead, the player would cost more than Villa paid for Christian Benteke and would represent a change of policy in Villa's transfer dealings. Recent signings by the Midlands club have been inexpensive by Premier League standards and a £9 million deal for Gueye would see the biggest fee spent since the transfer of Darren Bent. Gueye has made 134 Ligue 1 appearances for Lille and was reportedly the subject of interest from Southampton, Crystal Palace and Marseille - but it appears Villa have made the highest bid for the 25-year-old. Villa have been crying out for more goals from midfield and Gueye, who scored four goals last season, could end up being something of a coup for Sherwood.
