Aston Villa say they have agreed a fee forNewcastle United's exiled striker Craig Bellamy, who is currently on loan at Celtic.
A deal as also been agreed for defender Aaron Hughes as David O'Leary looks to add to his squad after a disappointing season in the Premiership.
Aston Villa chief, Doug Ellis, has said he has spoken with the Newcastle chairman on several occasions and last night a cash fee was agreed.
Freddie Shepherd - the Newcastle United chairman - is away on club business and has said that no deal has been agreed, however, Villa do have permission to speak to Craig Bellamy who has no future at Newcastle United.
It is believed that Aston Villa want to build a side to push for the Champions League around Craig Bellamy, who have already agreed a deal with former Liverpool player Patrik Berger.
David O'Leary has already said that he is a fan of Bellamy, and it is more likely that Villa will make a formal move for the Wales international forward in the coming weeks.
More to follow...