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 Under-21 player, having said in late July: “We have to hang on in there for as long as we can.

“If it takes until Christmas, then it’s another body for us.

“The player wants to leave and come to us and it’s been left that way.”

Should Berson sign, he would become Villa’s second recruit from the French league this summer, after Czech defender Vaclav Drobny joined on a season-long loan deal from Strasbourg.

That deal was completed yesterday, after Drobny impressed O’Leary during a trial stint.

Drobny was delighted to learn that he has a future with Villa.

“The past few days were difficult for me because I did not know where I stood, but now that it is done I feel far better,” he told Strasbourg’s website, www.rcstrasbourg.fr.

“I am very happy, the trial went well, and I managed to convince the coach.

“I am sure that English football will suit me because this is a direct game. This is a new experience for me.

“I believe the squad is young enough to do well, it could be our strength this season.”