Villa close to signing Berson

ASTON VILLA moved closer to signing Mathieu Berson after his club Nantes conceded defeat in their bid to retain the midfielder.

The French Ligue 1 club had put up strong resistance to Villa’s interest in the 24-year-old, stating that he would be an integral member of their team in the upcoming season. But after several weeks of no movement, they have now granted Berson’s wish to join the Premiership club.

Nantes president Jean-Luc Gripond predicted an imminent conclusion to the transfer. “It could happen in midweek,” he said. “We cannot prevent a player leaving if they want to go.”

Villa boss David O’Leary is now expected to move for the former France U21 player.

Should Berson sign, he would become Villa’s second recruit from the French league this summer, after Czech defender Vaclav Drobny joined from Strasbourg.