According to reports in the Irish Sun, Aston Villa are said to be closing in on a deal to sign Stoke City midfielder Glenn Whelan.
What’s the word, then?
Well, the Republic of Ireland international has almost been at the Britannia Stadium for a decade having joined Stoke from Sheffield Wednesday in 2008, but the 33-year-old looks set to leave this summer after falling down the midfield pecking order following the arrival of Darren Fletcher from West Bromwich Albion.
Villa are thought to be the frontrunners for his signature, but they could face competition from Premier League side Burnley.
How good has he been for Stoke?
He has been a brilliant and consistent performer for the Potters over the years, scoring eight goals in 337 appearances in all competitions for the club.
The 33-year-old has also played in both a FA Cup final and the Europa League but with just a year left on his contract, he could be on his way out.
Would he be a good signing for Villa?
He certainly would be.
With a limited transfer budget this summer because of the Football League clamping down on Financial Fair Play regulations, Steve Bruce will need to sell before he can buy and bring in mainly free transfers, loan players or individuals for a low fee.
Whelan would come under the latter, and he would certainly bring a wealth of experience to the middle of the park as Villa look to secure promotion back to the Premier League following a disappointing 13th-placed finish this season.
If he was handed a two-year deal and the Midlands outfit did go up next year, he would be a good player to also have around on the return to the top flight.
How much would he cost?
It’s difficult to say.
With a year left on his contract and at 33 years of age, you would expect that Whelan would be available for a £1m or less, but with the ever-increasing fees you never know.
What’s the verdict, then?
Well, there is no doubt that Whelan would be a useful signing for Villa next year and potentially the year after if they return to the Premier League, and he would add to the experience already provided by Mile Jedinak in the middle of the park.
