Ranson confirms Villa plans

Former Manchester City defender Ray Ranson has confirmed he is considering a bid for Aston Villa.

A statement released to the stock exchange this morning revealed Ranson is “working on a proposal which may or may not lead to an approach”.

However, Ranson warned any bid process is “at a very early stage”.

The statement said: “Mr Ray Ranson confirms that he is working on a proposal that may or may not lead to an approach being made to the board of Aston Villa plc for a possible offer for the company by Mr Ranson and others.

“It should be noted that this is at a very early stage and an approach may not prove to be possible.”