Villa press

Daily Express: Aston Villa captain Ron Vlaar has dropped a hint that he wants to stay ahead of talks over his future in the next few days. The Holland centre-back only has a year left on his contract at Villa Park and has been targeted by Southampton boss Ronald Koeman as a replacement for Dejan Lovren. Villa are poised to offer the 29-year-old a new four-year deal worth £45,000 a week. And Villa manager Paul Lambert says informal conversations with the Dutchman appear to suggest Vlaar might not quit the claret and blues.

Daily Star: Paul Lambert is confident that Ron Vlaar wants to stay at Aston Villa. The Dutch defender has only a year left on his contract at Villa Park and is hot property following a superb World Cup with Holland. Vlaar will be offered a new four-year deal worth £45,000 a week to stay put. And Lambert reckons the 29-year-old has given him hope that he has no intention of quitting despite the club being up for sale. "Ron told me he is concentrating on the Stoke game," said Lambert.

BT Sport: Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert is planning on holding talks with captain Ron Vlaar in a bid to resolve the defender's future. With one year remaining on the Dutchman's contract, and following his stand-out performances for Holland in the World Cup, Vlaar has since been linked with a number of clubs, notably Serie A pair Juventus and Lazio. After an extended break for the 29-year-old in light of his World Cup exertions, Vlaar returned to the Villa fold on Saturday, although as a spectator only for the club's 4-1 pre-season friendly defeat at Groningen. With Vlaar back in training this week as the countdown continues towards the opening Barclays Premier League game with Stoke on August 16, Lambert said: "He told me he is concentrating on that game. "He's not had much of a break, but he's enthusiastic, positive and raring to go."

Guardian: Paul Lambert is planning to hold talks with his captain, Ron Vlaar, in an attempt to resolve the defender's future. Vlaar has been linked with a number of clubs, notably Juventus and Lazio, since his standout performances for Holland at the World Cup. The 29-year-old is back in training this week, having attended Villa's friendly at Groningen on Saturday as a spectator. "It was a good feeling I got from him," Lambert told the Birmingham Mail. "To be fair, it was a really brief conversation I had before the game as I was preparing the lads for the match. "Ron's got another year still to go on his contract - it's not as if he's at the end of it. Once we get back I'll sit with him … but he loves it at Villa."

Birmingham Mail: Ron Vlaar will not suffer a World Cup comedown, insists Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert. And goalkeeper Brad Guzan will be fired up for the start of the season, too, after his summer with the USA team. Both players started their pre-season schedules later than the rest of the squad as Lambert allowed them extended holiday to recover. For the past two seasons they have been key performers and the pair are crucial to any Villa side moving forward. Vlaar's future will be discussed in detail this week while Guzan will continue his preparations ahead of the forthcoming campaign.

Birmingham Mail: Samir Carruthers is a target for MK Dons again after his last spell at the League One club was cut short by injury. Carruthers spent half of last term on loan at Stadium MK before suffering a severe knee problem in February and returning to Bodymoor Heath to do his rehabilitation. The 21-year-old midfielder was involved in Villa's friendly victory over Mansfield and the defeat to Chesterfield, but he was not selected for the pre-season tour in Texas, nor the trip to Holland for Saturday's heavy defeat to Groningen. MK Dons manager Karl Robinson admitted he may enquire about signing Carruthers permanently.

Milton Keynes Citizen: Karl Robinson has hinted that MK Dons will make a move for Aston Villa's Samir Carruthers. The talented midfielder was part of Dons' squad for the first part of last season, but saw his tenure at the club cut short with a knee injury, picked up in the FA Cup third round replay against Wigan at stadium:mk. His car was spotted in the car park before Dons' final pre-season game against Leicester City on Monday night, sparking rumours of a return to the club, and those rumours gathered pace after the game as Robinson admitted he'd love to bring him back. "Samir is someone I think is a top, top player. I'm not going to rule it out, but I'm not going to tell you I've done a deal either. He's someone I'd love to bring to the club on a permanent deal.

Cheers Eastie.

Birmingham Mail: Alan Hutton scored his first ever Villa goal as the claret and blues saw off Walsall in their final away clash of pre-season. The Scot, who now appears to be firmly back in the first-team frame, popped up with a 28th minute strike to give Villa a 1-0 win against the Saddlers.

Birmingham Mail: Alan Hutton was ribbed by his team-mates as he scored a rare goal in Villa's 1-0 win over Walsall last night. The Scottish defender admitted that he didn't even have a goal celebration planned as his goal-scoring antics are so sparse.

Birmingham Mail: Villa's final pre-season friendly on the road helped restore some faith as the claret and blues comfortably saw off Walsall at The Banks's Stadium. A scrappy Alan Hutton goal was all the visitors had to show for their efforts but it was the performance that showed plenty of improvement from the weekend.

The Sun: Alan Hutton had his Villa team-mates in stitches - after finally breaking his four-year goal drought. The Scotland defender had last hit the onion back when he was a Spurs player, back in 2010.

The Sun: Aston Villa's Antonio Luna is off to Hellas Verona on loan. The Spanish defender, 23, joins the Italian club for 12 months.

Daily Telegraph: Randy Lerner, the Aston Villa owner, has flown in from the United States in an effort to give the club a much-needed transfer boost ahead of the new season. Despite putting Villa up for sale, Lerner has agreed to make up to £10million available for manager Paul Lambert to spend before this summer's window shuts.

From the official website -

Birmingham Mail: Alan Hutton has revealed he thought his Aston Villa days were over before his shock re-introduction into the first-team this summer. The Scottish defender feared for his Premier League future and a move away from Villa Park was looking inevitable. When Paul Lambert told him he was in his plans for the forthcoming season it came as a massive surprise. And despite being left in limbo for the past two campaigns, Hutton now remains fully focused on transforming his career back in the top flight and helping Villa progress.

Daily Mirror: Alan Hutton is determined to make the most of his "new lease of life" after a surprise recall from the wilderness at Aston Villa. But the former Spurs and Rangers defender admits he is still surprised at his shock lifeline after two years either in the Midlanders' reserves and out on loan. Many Villa fans struggled to comprehend how Hutton can be willing to play for a manager who ostracised him previously. But the Scotland international insists he and countryman Paul Lambert maintained a decent relationship and says the Villa boss helped get him get game-time on loan at Forest, Mallorca and Bolton.

The Sun: Alan Hutton says he still gets on with Paul Lambert like a house on fire despite two years out in the cold. The Aston Villa defender was made to train with the kids between loan spells away as boss Lambo tried to offload his big earners. Yet Hutton, 29, now looks nailed on to be Villa's right-back in their Premier League opener at Stoke on Saturday week.

Daily Star: Misfit Alan Hutton has opened up about his incredible escape from the Aston Villa slammer. The £9m full back is on the verge of a dramatic first team recall after two years out in the cold. Former Rangers and Tottenham star Hutton had resigned himself to being bombed out at Villa. But the 29-year-old has revealed he's now desperate to grab the lifeline thrown to him by boss Paul Lambert. He has not kicked a ball for Villa in two miserable seasons which saw him training with the kids and loaned out to Nottingham Forest, Real Mallorca and Bolton. But the Scottish international is back in contention and even popped up with a rare winning goal in the 1-0 friendly win over Walsall on Tuesday. Hutton can barely believe that things have turned around so dramatically.

Clubcall: Aston Villa have allowed young winger Samir Carruthers to join League One MK Dons for an undisclosed fee on a three-year deal. The 21-year-old came through the Villans' academy, after switching from Arsenal's youth set-up, and has made three substitute appearances in the Premier League for the West Midlands side. Carruthers spent seven months of last season on loan at Karl Robinson's side, playing 28 times, netting twice before returning to his parent club after injuring his posterior cruciate ligament.

Sheffield Star: Harry Forrester can be the best player in League One. That's the verdict of boss Paul Dickov who can't wait to unleash the 23-year-old winger on third tier defences. Forrester endured an injury-ravaged first season at Doncaster, making just nine appearances following his summer switch from Brentford. The Bees have since swapped places with Doncaster in the Championship - adding to Forrester's frustration. But Dickov has backed the Milton Keynes born winger to bounce back from his injury nightmare and make a big impression in League One. The Scot has also revealed how the former Aston Villa trainee feels he owes Rovers, following the club's relegation from the Championship.

Best of the Rest

BBC Sport: Southampton have signed Inter Milan midfielder Saphir Taider, with club-record signing Dani Osvaldo going the other way - both on season-long loans. Taider, 22, who made 25 Serie A appearances last season, played against Belgium and Germany at the World Cup.

Sky Sports: Bacary Sagna says the strength of Manchester City's squad will allow the team to be rotated and hopefully drive them on to success in all competitions this season. Sagna has made the move to the Etihad Stadium from Arsenal this summer and accepts that it will be difficult to hold on to a regular starting role ahead of Pablo Zabaleta, who has been one of the Premier League's most consistent right-backs over recent years.

Express and Star: Aston Villa have sold midfielder Samir Carruthers to loan club Milton Keynes Dons for an undisclosed fee. The 21-year-old, who has signed a three-year deal, featured 28 times for the League One side in 2013-14 before a knee injury curtailed his campaign. He made three substitute during his four years at Villa Park, but is currently sidelined with a thigh injury.

Sky Sports: Sky sources understand Aston Villa are close to agreeing a fee for the permanent transfer of Valencia left-back Aly Cissokho. The 26-year-old spent last season on-loan at Liverpool where he registered 19 appearances in all competitions for Brendan Rodgers' side. The former Lyon defender joined Valencia in 2012 in a deal thought to be worth around £6m having previously turned out for Portuguese sides Porto and Vitoria Setubal.

Football 365: Alan Hutton says he is delighted to be back in the first-team picture at Aston Villa after being brought back into the squad by Paul Lambert. Hutton has never played a Premier League match for Villa since Lambert took charge in the summer of 2012, instead being farmed out on loan to Nottingham Forest, Real Mallorca and Bolton Wanderers. Now suddenly the Scotland international right-back is in line to feature under Lambert this season, after playing most of pre-season.

ClubCall: Alan Hutton claims he will do all he can to repay boss Paul Lambert's faith in him after being given a new chance at Aston Villa. The 29-year-old Scotland international right-back seemed set to depart Villa Park this summer having not featured for the team since Lambert was drafted in as manager from Norwich in summer 2012. Hutton has had spells out on loan with the likes of Nottingham Forest, Real Mallorca and Bolton Wanderers over the past two seasons and was poised to look for another club this summer.

Daily Mail: Aston Villa's Darren Bent, Joe Cole and Fabian Delph were all smiles after grabbing the opportunity to meet a sporting hero during their USA tour. The trio all fulfilled a boyhood dream after having the pleasure to come face to face with boxing legend George Foreman.

Metro: Aston Villa are believed to be close to agreeing a deal for Liverpool's Aly Cissokho. The Villans have endured a tough summer transfer window to date, with owner Randy Lerner reluctant to give boss Paul Lambert a strong budget while the club is still up for sale. Lambert has so far managed to add just Joe Cole, Kieran Richardson and Philippe Senderos to his ranks since the end of last season, which was another torrid one for the midlands outfit.

Best Of The Rest

BBC Sport: Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger says the club have received offers for captain Thomas Vermaelen and that Manchester United could be one of the bidders.

Sky Sports: Luis Suarez's legal representatives are confident they can persuade the Court of Arbitration for Sport to halve the striker's four-month ban at an appeal hearing on Friday.

Sky Sports: Derby County manager Steve McClaren and his coaching staff have all signed new contracts with the Championship club.

Birmingham Mail: Villa are chasing Valencia left-back Aly Cissokho as boss Paul Lambert continues his summer recruitment drive. The claret and blues boss wants to shore up his defence ahead of the new season and has targeted the 26-year-old Frenchman. Cissokho, who spent last season on loan at Liverpool, has two years left on his Valencia contract and last night Villa were still trying to trash out a deal.

Birmingham Mail: Gary Gardner is playing without any fear as he aims to finally kickstart his Villa career. The midfielder wants to put his injury frustrations behind him and make a name for himself as a Premier League star. The anterior cruciate ligament setbacks have seriously hampered his progress at the club he has been at since he was seven years old. But boss Paul Lambert reckons he's in a good place at the moment and has no concerns over his state of mind.

Daily Express: Aston Villa look set to sign former Liverpool left-back Aly Cissokho, 26, from Valencia. The Frenchman has been targeted by manager Paul Lambert all summer and is poised to get the player for a cut-price £2m.

Daily Mail: Aston Villa are talking to Valencia about left-back Aly Cissokho. Manager Paul Lambert needs reinforcements after loaning Spaniard Antonio Luna to Hellas Verona and missing out on a loan for Ryan Bertrand who moved to Southampton.

ClubCall: Aston Villa are reportedly close to sealing a deal for Valencia's French defender Aly Cissokho. The 26-year-old left-back, who cost the Spanish outfit six million euros when they signed him from Lyon two years ago, has experience of playing Premier League football having made 19 appearances on loan at Liverpool last season. However, while Cissokho failed to do enough to earn a move to the Merseysiders, it seems Villa boss Paul Lambert was impressed by his performances and has stepped up his interest.

Mirror: Aston Villa are reportedly set to make Aly Cissokho their first cash signing of the summer, by spending £2million on the Valencia defender. The left-back, 26, made 19 appearances on loan at Liverpool last season, but didn't do enough to persuade Brendan Rodgers to push through a permanent move.

Daily Star: Aston Villa are set to agree a fee with Valencia for former Liverpool left-back Aly Cissokho. According to reports, the two clubs are close to settling on a transfer fee to allow Villa the chance to discuss personal terms with the player. Cissokho spent last season on-loan at Liverpool where he made 19 appearances during an injury-hit campaign. The 26-year-old joined Valencia in 2012 from French club Lyon for a fee in the region of £6m. One-time France cap Cissokho established himself as one of the most sought-after left-backs in Europe after an impressive year in Portugal with Vitoria and Porto.

Daily Telegraph: Aston Villa are in talks over a bid to sign Colombia international midfielder Carlos Sánchez. Defensive midfielder Sánchez is currently at Spanish club Elche, but Villa are interested in bringing the 28-year-old to England. Villa had been hopeful of signing Ki Sung-yueng from Swansea, but progress on that deal stalled and it appears they may now have turned to Sánchez. Sánchez has made 44 appearances for Colombia and played in all of his country's World Cup matches in Brazil. Queens Park Rangers have also looked at Sánchez, who is valued at around £4 million, this summer. Nicknamed 'The Rock' in Colombia, Sánchez has been the unsung hero of the national team and has been compared to Claude Makélélé.

Birmingham Mail: Villa are still keen on Swansea midfielder Ki Sung-Yueng but Victor Moses is not likely to be pursued. The claret and blues are after two more signings and they have identified a holding midfielder to bolster their ranks for the forthcoming season. Ki is the man Lambert wants but it is thought Villa will not pay the estimated £4m the Welsh club are asking. After Saturday's final pre-season clash of the summer ended in a 0-0 stalemate with Parma, Lambert said: "I'm trying to do things before the end of August."

Daily Mail: Aston Villa midfielder Joe Cole has returned to training and could be fit for the club's first home game of the season on Saturday August 23. Cole, 32, has missed the majority of pre-season with a thigh injury picked up in a friendly against Mansfield but manager Paul Lambert has given assurances the former England international will not be out for long. "It is a pure minor thigh strain. He felt it over time so we just left it," said Lambert, whose side played out a goalless draw against Parma without the absent Cole on Saturday.

Daily Record: Celtic are set to land £2m-rated Aleksandar Tonev after the Bulgarian jetted into Glasgow last night for talks. Parkhead chiefs spent the weekend thrashing out a deal for the Aston Villa ace. His capture looks likely to be rubber-stamped this morning after the clubs agreed a loan deal with an option to buy at the end of the season. Ironically, Celtic were on the verge of sealing Tonev's signature a year ago in a £2m move. However, the English Premier League side swept in at the 11th hour to take him from Lech Poznan to the Midlands. The 24-year-old has been unable to nail down a regular place in the Villa side and doesn't feature in Paul Lambert's plans for the new campaign. Tonev, who started his career at Bulgarian club CSKA Sofia and has 15 caps to his name, is now poised for Glasgow at the second time of asking.

Glasgow Evening Times: Aleksandar Tonev will become Ronny Deila's third signing when he arrives at Celtic on loan from Aston Villa on Monday. The Bulgarian winger will join Craig Gordon and Jo Inge Berget as the Norwegian manager's first recruits, with the club having the option to buy after the year-long loan. And the Hoops are hoping to add at least one more player before Monday night's 11pm registration deadline for the Champions League play-off round. Tonev was the subject of a £2million bid by the Hoops last summer. But, after Celtic agreed a deal with his then club, Lech Poznan, in Poland, Aston Villa topped their offer by £500,000 and the 24-year-old chose to accept the chance to move to the Premier League.

Daily Mail: Aston Villa midfielder Aleksandar Tonev will have a medical on Monday ahead of joining Celtic on a season-long loan. The 24-year-old Bulgarian was a target for Celtic before joining Villa for £2.5million last summer. He flew to Glasgow on Sunday night and talks will continue on Monday.

Daily Mirror: Aston Villa are sending Bulgarian midfielder Aleksandar Tonev to Celtic on loan - and straight into Champions League qualifiers with the Hoops. Boss Paul Lambert agreed to help out his old club and Tonev, signed from Lech Posnan a year ago, had signed a season-long deal.

Teamtalk: Marc Albrighton has welcomed a change of scenery and is hoping that new club Leicester City can emulate Swansea following his summer switch from Aston Villa. The 24-year-old progressed through Villa's youth system before making his debut in 2009, but struggled to hold a regular place during his final two years at the club and was subsequently allowed to leave as a free agent this summer. Albrighton, who made 19 Premier League appearances last season, has since linked up with Nigel Pearson's newly-promoted Foxes as they prepare for life back in the top flight after a 10-year absence. The winger had a brief loan spell at Championship side Wigan in the first half of last season, but has otherwise spent the entirety of his career with Villa, and says he is now relishing a fresh start.

Birmingham Mail: Paul Lambert is yet to hold formal talks with Ron Vlaar over his future but the Villa boss is not fazed about the situation. Vlaar returned to action on Saturday in the 0-0 draw with Parma as a second half substitute. He cruised through the game and continued where he left off for Holland in the World Cup. Lambert admitted that in-depth negotiations over his future are yet to take place but he's sure they will in time.

Thanks for that Eastie. 

Express & Star: Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert today vowed new signing Aly Cissokho will be ready to make his debut at Stoke City in the Premier League opener. The powerful left-back is currently awaiting international clearance after signing a four-year deal, joining from Spanish club Valencia for £2m. The 26-year-old Frenchman, a former Liverpool loanee, was introduced to the home fans at half-time in the goalless friendly draw against Parma at Villa Park on Saturday. Boss Lambert linked up with Cissokho today for training at Bodymoor Heath and believes the club have signed a "real asset."

STV Sport: Aston Villa winger Aleksandar Tonev has undergone a medical ahead of a proposed loan move to Celtic. The 24-year-old was previously a transfer target under former manager Neil Lennon while with Polish side Lech Poznan. Tonev opted to join Villa last summer despite interest from the Scottish champions but 12 months later Celtic are closing in on his signature. The Bulgarian made 20 appearances for Paul Lambert's men last term with 12 of those appearances coming from the bench. Tonev could make his debut in Celtic's Scottish Premiership opener against St Johnstone on Wednesday if the formalities of the move are completed in time. He is set to become the club's third summer signing following deals for Jo Inge Berget and Craig Gordon.

Clubcall: Scottish champions Celtic are in advanced discussions to sign Aston Villa winger Aleksandar Tonev in time to face Maribor. The 24-year-old Bulgarian winger will initially sign on a season-long loan deal which could be with a view to a permanent deal for just £2m. Tonev joined Villa from Lech Poznan in 2013, but he went on to make just 20 appearances in all competitions last season. It appears as though Paul Lambert has lost patience with the inconsistent winger but Celtic, who scouted Tonev extensively before he switched to Villa, believe he can be a difference-maker for them at home and abroad. Celtic face Maribor in the play-off round of the Champions League later this month and are desperate to sign reinforcements after being given a 6-1 drubing by Legia Warsaw in the previous round, only to progress on a technicality.

Metro: Aston Villa are believed to have entered talks with Elche over the signing of Colombian international Carlos Sanchez. The Villans have endured a difficult transfer window to date, with want-away owner Randy Lerner reluctant to offer boss Paul Lambert much in the way of funds. But having brought in Joe Cole, Philippe Senderos, Kieran Richardson and Aly Cissokho - with the latter pair the only ones to cost any money at around £600k and £2m respectively - Villa look set to spend again as they pursue Sanchez. The defensive midfielder is expected to be available for around £4m, with Lambert aiming to bolster his young squad ahead of Saturday's Premier League opener at Stoke. Sanchez played in each of Colombia's World Cup matches this summer, as they reached the quarter-finals with a series of impressive displays. 'The Rock', as he is referred to in his home country, is also thought to be wanted by QPR.

Express & Star: Aston Villa flop Aleksandar Tonev has completed a loan move to Glasgow Celtic. The 24-year-old Bulgaria international has made just eight starts for Villa since a £2.5m switch from Lech Poznan in June 2013. The former CSKA Sofia player made a further 12 appearances as a substitute for Paul Lambert's side. The Hoops can buy Tonev on a permanent basis if the move proves to be a success.

Clubcall: Aleksandar Tonev wants to emulate his hero Stiliyan Petrov by becoming a Celtic legend after sealing a loan move from Aston Villa. The Bulgarian winger will spend the season with the Scottish champions, who announced on Monday the deal includes an option to buy the 24-year-old next summer. And he wants to become as popular at Parkhead as his fellow countryman Petrov, who spent seven years with the Hoops before moving south of the border to join Villa.

ITV Sport: Aleksandar Tonev will aim to follow the example of fellow Bulgarian Stiliyan Petrov by becoming a Celtic hero after sealing a loan move to Parkhead. The Aston Villa player will spend the season with the Scottish champions, who announced on Monday the deal includes an option to buy the 24-year-old next summer. Midfielder Petrov spent seven years with Celtic before taking the opposite path to Tonev, by moving south of the border to join Villa. As Tonev prepares for his big chance in the green and white hoops, the winger said: "Joining Celtic is unbelievable, and I feel really good about it. I'm delighted to have joined the club and I can't wait to meet up with my new team-mates and start playing for Celtic."

FourFourTwo: Celtic have signed Aleksandar Tonev on a season-long loan from Aston Villa, with an option for a permanent deal at the end of the campaign. The 24-year-old moved to Villa Park from Lech Poznan ahead of 2013-14, but failed to hold down a regular spot in Paul Lambert's starting line-up. A Bulgaria international, Tonev made 20 appearances in all competitions for Villa, 12 of which were as a substitute. Celtic confirmed the capture on their official website on Monday, with new boss Ronny Deila excited at the potential shown by the forward.

Clubcall: Aston Villa are in pole position to sign Colombian midfielder Carlos Sanchez from Elche after making a £3.3m bid on Saturday. Sanchez, 28, is aware that Villa are offering to significantly increase his salary and Elche are already making plans to sign his replacement with Sunderland's Alfred N'Diaye their top target. The former Valenciennes midfielder is nicknamed 'The Rock' because of his solid performances for club and country and sounds like just the sort of player Paul Lambert has been looking for. Spanish sources claim other clubs have been sniffing around Sanchez following his excellent displays at the World Cup where he helped Colombia reach the quarter-finals. West Ham and Bolton tried to sign him when he became a free agent in 2012 but he failed to reach an agreement with either and went back to France. Villa are confident that he would qualify for a work permit as he appeared in 12 of Colombia's 16 World Cup qualifying ties and four of their five matches in Brazil.

Cheers bud.

Birmingham Mail: Villa are hoping to make Carlos Sanchez their fifth summer signing. The Colombian is flying into Birmingham ahead of a medical which could take place this evening after a fee was agreed with his current club Elche. They are expected to pay around £4.5 million in total which includes a payment to the third party ownership group that controls part of the player's rights.

Daily Mail: Aston Villa are believed to be close to finalising the £4.7 million signing of Elche's Carlos Sanchez, known as 'The Rock'. The 28-year-old Columbia midfielder has been watched by several Premier League sides, including QPR, but Villa boss Paul Lambert seems closet to adding some much needed bite to his midfield.

Birmingham Mail: Former Aston Villa goalkeeper Mark Bosnich is looking forward to seeing the new signings in action and is hoping Villa improve on their recent standings. The Australian played in a strong Villa side between 1992-1999 and won two League Cups during his time. Bosnich was also in the side that pushed for a Premier League title.

Birmingham Mail: Set-piece specialist Leandro Bacuna is targeting an even better goals return this season after admitting: "Last term I was just the new boy." The 22-year-old enjoyed an impressive debut Premier League campaign as he finished as Villa's second-top goalscorer with five strikes. His versatility helped out boss Paul Lambert, who could call on him to play right-back, right-wing or in the centre of midfield. Bacuna appeared to be more comfortable in an advanced attacking role and he is hoping to improve on last season's contribution in 2014/15.

Express and Star: Villa's move for Elche midfielder Carlos Sanchez was still in the balance today. The 28-year-old defensive midfielder - nicknamed The Rock - was today due into the Second City to sign a four-year deal. However, a third-party ownership wrangle has complicated the deal and Villa were today assessing their options. The Colombia international had been identified by Villa boss Paul Lambert as the man he wants to add some bite to his midfield. And, if this last-minute hitch can be sorted out, the Villa boss looks to have secured Sanchez's capture ahead of the Premier League opener against Stoke on Saturday.

ClubCall: Aston Villa are understood to be closing in on the signature of Elche midfielder Carlos Sanchez, who is travelling to discuss terms. Sanchez has been linked with a number of Premier League clubs over the summer after enjoying a good season in La Liga before featuring four times for Colombia at the World Cup. It appears that Villa have moved quickest and will beat both Everton and QPR to the 28-year-old's signature as Paul Lambert looks to ensure he has both experience and strength in his midfield. The Villains will have to splash out £4.7million to secure their target and he is now due to discuss personal terms before undergoing a medical ahead of the opening weekend of the season. The Colombia international should have no problems in obtaining a work permit, having won 48 caps for his country.

Birmingham Mail: Aston Villa will finish above the relegation places this season and finish in 16th position - according to former England star Michael Owen. He has today announced his predictions for the forthcoming Premier League season on sport social networking site Sportlobster. He states that it will be a tough season for Paul Lambert's side: "It could be another long season for Villa fans with a lack of quality and quantity in their squad.

Burton Mail: Aston Villa legend Ian Taylor has agreed to mentor two newly-formed under-eight teams in Alrewas to help them play at the top of their game. He has joined Alrewas Colts under-eight teams to assist in guiding the budding young sides, formed by three parents who are all Football Association (FA) trained. Having identified the need for a more local team for his son, head coach Mark Orton along with fellow parents Guy Moran and Darren Walker, first underwent the necessary FA coaching qualifications at St George's Park, in Burton, earlier this year.

Birmingham Mail: Ron Vlaar will start for Villa tomorrow after proving he has no lingering hangover from the World Cup. The club captain has only trained for the past fortnight but boss Paul Lambert has seen no signs of him struggling to be fit for the game at Stoke. Vlaar got 45 minutes under his belt in the final pre-season friendly against Parma last weekend and is ready to lead out his side. Formal talks over a new contract have not yet taken place-and the pursuit of Carlos Sanchez is ongoing-but the news Vlaar is fit to start is a boost for Villa ahead of their Premier League opener.

Daily Mirror: Paul Lambert insists there are no hard feelings amongst his Aston Villa outcasts. Lambert pledged a clean slate this summer and Alan Hutton is poised for a first competitive start under his fellow Scot. After taking charge two years ago amid financial cuts, Lambert froze out several big-earning stars. Right-back Hutton was axed but he and fit-again Charles N'Zogbia are likely to play at Stoke tomorrow. Striker Darren Bent is also back available after returning from loan at Fulham.

Daily Mail: Alan Hutton is in line to appear for Aston Villa for the first time in more than two years at Stoke City tomorrow with Paul Lambert saying he has 'no reservations' about playing the defender he froze out. The 29-year-old, bought by Alex McLeish in August 2011, has not played one competitive minute under Lambert as the Villa manager tried to cut costs to match chairman Randy Lerner's demands. But Lambert has defused his 'Bomb Squad' this summer with the club up for sale and Hutton, who scored in a pre-season friendly, is set to start for the first time since Villa drew with Tottenham in May 2012.

The Sun: Aston Villa defender Alan Hutton is set for his first Premier League game in two years tomorrow. Owner Randy Lerner wanted him and other high earners such as Darren Bent and Charles N'Zogbia out to cut costs. Now Lerner is selling up the outcasts are back in. Boss Paul Lambert said: "These lads have trained hard. They've not been one ounce of bother."

Daily Express: Paul Lambert has saluted the professionalism of Alan Hutton as the defender prepares for his first competitive outing in the Aston Villa manager's two-year reign. The Scotland right-back was brought to Villa three years ago by Alex McLeish and was then frozen out. But the 29-year-old, who has been loaned out to Bolton, Nottingham Forest and Real Mallorca in the previous two campaigns, is back in favour after owner Randy Lerner told Lambert to use all the resources available to him with summer transfer funds limited at the up-for-sale club. So Hutton is in line to start against Stoke tomorrow.

Birmingham Mail: Andi Weimann is hoping he gets a chance to play upfront this season. The Austrian broke through at Villa as a striker but has played more as a link-up player and out wide under boss Paul Lambert. Last season he managed just six goals after an impressive return of 12 the previous term. Ahead of the 2014/15 campaign he has targeted an improvement, and he knows his best chance of doing that is playing as a forward.

The Daily Telegraph: Alan Hutton is set to make his first Aston Villa appearance in more than two years when his team travel to Stoke City tomorrow.

Cheers Eastie. Looks like Lambert rates Hutton. Good to see.

Express and Star: Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert today questioned whether loyalty exists in football when questioned over captain Ron Vlaar's future. The Holland centre-back, who impressed at this summer's World Cup, has been linked with various clubs including Villa's Premier League rivals Southampton. Saints boss Ronald Koeman, his compatriot, has been quoted by Dutch media as saying of the 29-year-old that he would "really like to have him at Southampton". Vlaar has a year left on his Villa deal. Asked about the player signing a new contract, Lambert said: "To be fair to Ron, he has not come to us or anything."

Daily Star: Villa's summer signings Joe Cole, Philippe Senderos, Kieran Richardson and Aly Cissokho could all make their competitive debuts for Aston Villa at the Britannia Stadium on Saturday. Villa boss Paul Lambert will check the condition of both Cole (thigh) and World Cup semi-finalist Ron Vlaar ahead of the match but is optimistic the pair will be able to feature, while long-term absentee Jores Okore is in contention for his first competitive appearance since September having recovered from a serious knee problem.

Express and Star: Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert will check on the condition of both Ron Vlaar and midfielder Joe Cole ahead of tomorrow's trip to Stoke. Cole has been struggling with a thigh injury while Vlaar is still not up to match fitness following his exploits with Holland in the World Cup. Lambert has also reported he could have strikers Christian Benteke and Libor Kozak available in "a few weeks" as they step up their rehabilitation from long-term injuries. Belgium international Benteke has been sidelined since April, when he suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon in training with Villa that ruled him out of the World Cup and which the club said would require a minimum of six months' recovery time. Kozak sustained his injury in training with Villa as well, the Czech Republic frontman breaking his leg in January.

Birmingham Mail: Aston Villa supporters joined forces with fellow football fans to protest against rising football costs in a march on the Premier League headquarters in London. Villa fans were among a 500-strong group who took part in the Football Supporters Federation march for 'Affordable Football' on Thursday. Supporters from My Old Man Said website and the Brigada 1874 braved rain in the capital to fly the flag for Villa during the event. A delegation of supporters met with Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore to voice their concerns over the spiralling cost of watching football in this country.

ClubCall: Joe Cole, Philippe Senderos, Kieran Richardson and Aly Cissokho are set to make their league debuts Aston Villa at Stoke on Saturday. Villa boss Paul Lambert will check the condition of both Cole and World Cup semi-finalist Ron Vlaar ahead of the match but is optimistic the pair will be able to feature following respective thigh and general fitness issues. Long-term absentee Jores Okore is in contention for his first competitive appearance since September having recovered from a serious knee problem.

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BBC Sport: Brentford have signed Jose Peleteiro Ramallo, known as Jota, from Celta Vigo for an undisclosed fee and Jon Toral on a year-long loan from Arsenal. Both are Spanish attacking midfielders and Jota, 23, has signed a three-year contract at Griffin Park. Toral, 19, was with Barcelona before joining Arsenal in 2011.

Birmingham Mail: Alan Hutton had two reasons to be happy after Villa beat Stoke on Saturday. Firstly, his first competitive minutes under Paul Lambert were a success. Secondly, the team he wants to help fire up the league this season wrote off all their early-season doubters with an excellent away win. Speaking with a smile on his face for his second successive interview, Hutton said: "Everybody wrote us off coming to Stoke. But I think we have proved a lot of people wrong."

Daily Express: Aston Villa defender Alan Hutton came in from the cold to help Villa make a winning start on a day he admitted he thought would never come. Hutton had not played for the club in two years and had never been picked by manager Paul Lambert due to financial constraints at Villa Park. Like some of the club's other top earners, including Darren Bent and Shay Given, the Scotland international was pushed towards the exit door and spent time on loan at Nottingham Forest, Mallorca and Bolton. But with no permanent move forthcoming and Villa owner Randy Lerner changing tack while he looks to sell the club, Hutton was brought back into the fold. And the 29-year-old responded with a rock-solid display at right-back on what he described as his "second debut" as Villa punctured Stoke's pre-season optimism in clinical style.

Daily Star: Alan Hutton has been part of Aston Villa's "bomb squad" for two years - but now he plans to grab the chance to explode back onto the Premier League stage. The Scottish international defender was one of a group of high earning players frozen out by boss Paul Lambert when he took charge. Under orders from chairman Randy Lerner to slash the wage bill he axed Hutton from first team plans along with other experienced stars including Shay Given and Darren Bent. But after failing to find anybody to take on Hutton's £35,000 a week pay packet Lerner has now instructed Lambert to bring him and other exiles back into his thinking. And the impact was immediate as both players starred to help Villa kick off the campaign with three points thanks to Andi Weimann's second half goal. Hutton could have become bitter, but instead is determined only to look forward and kick his Premier League career back into life.

Independent: Each of Aston Villa's three newcomers enjoyed excellent first performances for the club but it was the "second debut" of Alan Hutton that might just epitomise the potential turnaround the club can now envisage. While Philippe Senderos, Aly Cissokho and Kieran Richardson competed for man-of-the-match honours with their commitment and defensive dedication, the Scotland right-back contributed just as much to helping shut out Stoke City and so bring Villa their first away win since New Year's Day. Hutton has been among the high earners frozen out as Villa attempted to curtail expenditure. But, with the club up for sale, owner Randy Lerner's attentions have reverted to the needs of today rather than hopes for tomorrow.

Daily Mirror: 'Bomb squad' member Alan Hutton exploded back into action and admitted he feared his Aston Villa career was over. Hutton was exiled two years ago when Villa owner Randy Lerner 'bombed' him out and the club's other top earners to cut costs. The defender could not train with the first team and went on loan to Nottingham Forest, Real Mallorca and Bolton before Lerner allowed boss Paul Lambert to bring them back into the fold this summer. Hutton made his first competitive Villa start since May 2012 on Saturday, and his debut under Lambert, to help them make a winning start to the campaign. "I didn't see this happening," said the right-back, who continued to be picked by Scotland during his two years in the wilderness. "You need to respect the decisions, which come from high above. It's one of those things, it's football and it happens. "Because it was beyond my control, there was nothing much I could do about it. The only thing I could do was come in and train every day, keep going and that's what I did. In my contact and meetings with the manager, there was never anything bad between us. It was just a situation we were in and there was nothing we could do about it. "We had a word before pre-season that I would be involved. I was obviously happy. I came back, had a full pre-season and was ready to go."

Telegraph: For the past two years Alan Hutton has suffered in silence while Aston Villa have struggled against relegation. Paul Lambert, the manager, even admitted last season that Hutton, who had been instructed to train with a bunch of fellow outcasts, had been frozen out due to his high wages. The defender has spent periods on loan at Real Mallorca, Nottingham Forest and Bolton Wanderers in an attempt to jump-start his career. In terms of being out in the cold, it must have felt distinctly arctic for the Scotland international. However, with Randy Lerner, the owner, determined to sell the club, Hutton has been taken out of isolation and given a chance to rebuild his career, which he seized against Stoke City on Saturday. It was his first appearance for Villa since May 2012 and testimony to his character that he produced such a performance after so long in the wilderness. "I didn't see this happening, to be honest. It's been difficult and I'm not one of those players who's just happy sitting there," he said. "Football is also a business and you need to respect the decisions which come from high above. Because it was beyond my control, there was nothing much I could do about it. The only thing I could do was come in and train every day, keep going and keep my head up and that's what I did. "I've got a family behind me, who supported me all the way, and that was really a plus. It's a clean slate for everybody and you have to show that you can take your chance when it comes."

Guardian: Alan Hutton's impressive first competitive game for Paul Lambert after two years in the wilderness could point to a turnaround in Aston Villa's fortunes. The Scotland right-back was one of the "bomb squad" whom Lambert agreed to leave out since taking over in the summer of 2012 as Villa looked to cut costs and build a lean and hungry line-up for the longer term. But the trouble with long-term plans is when they do not work in the short term. Having failed to lever Hutton off the wage bill, and with Villa now making the here and now a priority after chairman Randy Lerner put the club up for sale in May, the manager has gratefully reintegrated the 29-year-old into a new, far more experienced defensive unit. Capitalising on Andreas Weimann's goal early in the second half, Ron Vlaar, the only survivor of last season's back four, continued where he left off in helping Holland finish third in the World Cup and his final-whistle embrace with Philippe Senderos, equally impressive alongside him on his debut, as Lambert's team sealed their first clean sheet away from home since February, reflected the determination to make Villa sturdy again. Aly Cissokho, surely a different left-back from the wobbly performer last seen on loan at Liverpool, completed a resolute rearguard action.

Birmingham Mail: Villa boss Paul Lambert has thanked Randy Lerner for his financial backing as he chases two more signings in the next fortnight. The owner sanctioned the deal to bring in Carlos Sanchez on Friday and is expected to free up more funds before August 31. If Lambert can sign the two targets he is after, he feels he will be fully equipped for the rest of the campaign.

A bit of optimism being written about Villa in the press. About time.
Cheers Eastie.

Birmingham Mail:

Goodbye to the soft-touch Aston Villa.

Your shelf-life has expired.

From now on in the standards set by the team that saw off Stoke City are the minimum requirements going forward.

Villa gave everything in the win over the Potters and if their quality doesn’t match up to opponents this season their enthusiasm must.

It was clear to see that the claret and blues were fired-up for their weekend win.

What’s important now is that their efforts do not drop.

We know that there’s a team out there that can do better than just stay in the Premier League by the skin of their teeth.

It’s just time to prove it.

Recent years have been hard to handle.

Villa have been brushed aside far too easily on far too many occasions.

Not only has the quality in the team dipped, the passion has also faded, too.

For those who have followed Villa through the good (and very bad) times, that is unacceptable.

On Saturday there wouldn’t have been one fan in the Britannia Stadium’s away end that wasn’t proud of their side.

Villa showed courage and bravery to stand up to a team that has bullied so many opponents in the past.

A team that may have changed it’s approach in recent times but was still tipped by many to cause a stir in the Premier League this term were made to look very ordinary by Paul Lambert’s side.

These are very early days in the season but the signs are good.

Lambert has addressed the problems that have blighted Villa for the duration of his reign.

The full-back positions have been a problem. Villa have been far too lightweight.

That is now a thing of the past.

In Alan Hutton and Aly Cissokho, Lambert has two defenders who are rough and rugged. They can also attack.

Telegraph: Randy Lerner has arrived to England to finalise the appointment of a new chief executive, with Arsenal's chief commercial officer Tom Fox understood to be on the verge of landing the job. Lerner was at Aston Villa's Bodymoor Heath training ground on Tuesday and has held advanced talks with Fox over what will be a key role at the club. Fox is highly regarded at Arsenal, with the American having helped to set up the £170m kit deal with Puma last year. He has been approached by Lerner following the surprise departure of Paul Faulkner in July. The former president of NBA Asia, Fox was appointed by Arsenal in August 2009 and is poised to take a position that combines both football and commercial roles at Villa. Lerner is keen to complete the appointment within the next few days as he wants a proper structure in place to carry out day-to-day operations while he is back in the United States.

Birmingham Mail: Aston Villa are believed to be close to appointing a new chief executive with Arsenal's Tom Fox understood to be the man that Randy Lerner has chosen. The American owner has been in England this week to address the issue, and Fox, the chief commercial officer at the Emirates Stadium, is thought to have been sounded out. Since Paul Faulkner's surprise departure last month, Robin Russell has been temporarily looking after matters. However Lerner is thought to want someone with footballing experience at the helm as he seeks a permanent replacement. Fox is highly regarded at Arsenal. He's been with the Gunners since 2009 and helped set up the £170m kit deal with Puma last year. Previously he was the president of NBA Asia and has done an impressive job in London as one of the club's highest-ranked officials.

Daily Express: Randy Lerner has done a deal to take Arsenal high-flier Tom Fox from the Emirates and make him Aston Villa's new chief executive. Lerner flew in from the USA this week and has headed the talks to persuade Fox, Arsenal's chief commercial officer, to leave the Gunners. It is regarded as such a coup by Lerner it could lead to him reconsidering his decision to sell Villa.

Birmingham Mail: Buoyant Brad Guzan is hoping Villa's new-found resilience helps to rid them of their "soft touch" tag. Villa have been brushed aside far too easily in recent years but last Saturday's win at Stoke suggests that might be a thing of the past. Goalkeeper Guzan is refusing to get carried away with the opening day victory after a similar start to last season soon turned into a struggle. He feels the early signs are positive, though, and insists Villa will be no pushovers this season.

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BBC Sport: Manchester United have reached an agreement to sign Argentina defender Marcos Rojo from Sporting Lisbon. United said the deal, which Sporting report is worth £16m, is subject to a medical, and personal terms being agreed.

Sky Sports: Crystal Palace are expected to name their new manager today and Malky Mackay is the frontrunner to replace Tony Pulis, according to Sky sources. Mackay is thought to be the preferred choice of co-chairman Steve Parish, who interviewed him and former Tottenham head coach Tim Sherwood over the weekend.

BBC Sport: Brazil's World Cup goalkeeper Julio Cesar has joined Benfica after being released by Queens Park Rangers. The 34-year-old has signed a two-year contract with the Portuguese club.

The Sun: Paul Lambert is making a bold bid to capture Man Utd and England midfielder Tom Cleverley. Aston Villa owner Randy Lerner has stunned fans with his readiness to bankroll a deal which could rise to £8. That would top the £7m that boss Lambo paid for Christian Benteke in his first season at Villa. It is the clearest sign yet that Lerner has reassessed his strategy to put more club into the club.

Daily Telegraph: Paul Lambert, the Aston Villa manager, has had an £8m bid for Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley accepted, and is ready to open contract talks with Fabian Delph after his call-up to the England squad. Lambert hopes to persuade Cleverley to reject interest from Hull City and Everton in a move which represents a substantial commitment from owner Randy Lerner. Cleverley has been told he can leave Old Trafford by new United manager Louis van Gaal and Villa have moved swiftly in an attempt to sign the England international before the transfer window closes on Monday. Lerner has put the club up for sale and is keen to step aside but has continued to back Lambert this summer, with around £12m paid out on transfer fees and wages. And the bid for Cleverley, if successful, will ensure the 25-year-old becomes Villa's biggest signing since Charles N'Zogbia's £9.5m capture from Wigan Athletic in July 2011. Hull are also believed to have had a bid for Cleverley accepted while Everton manager Roberto Martinez, who signed Cleverley on loan during his spell at former club Wigan Athletic, could make a move.

Birmingham Mail: Fabian Delph has been handed his first call-up to the senior England squad on the day that Villa boss Paul Lambert firmed up his interest in Man Utd midfielder Tom Cleverly. Reports claim that Villa have had an £8m bid accepted for the 25-year-old as he weighs up his options ahead of Monday's transfer deadline with Everton and Hull also interested.

Birmingham Mail: Paul Lambert insists his side are ready to end their home troubles against Hull. Villa haven't scored on home soil yet this term and were knocked out of the Capital One Cup by League One Leyton Orient on Wednesday. Last season Villa managed a record number of losses in a single season at Villa Park and supporters have become increasingly frustrated with the woes in their back yard. However, Lambert is determined to stop the bad vibes.

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BBC Sport: Leicester City have signed former Inter Milan captain Esteban Cambiasso on a one-year deal. The former Argentina international made 32 starts for Inter last season but was released in the summer and available on a free transfer.

Sky Sports: Tottingham are actively pursuing a loan deal for Manchester United forward Danny Welbeck but have ended their interest in Barcelona midfielder Alex Song, according to Sky sources. Sky Sports reported earlier on Thursday that Spuds were discussing potential loans for Cameroon international Song, 26, and England's Welbeck, 23, after both players were told they were no longer wanted at their respective clubs.

BBC Sport: Crystal Palace have re-signed winger Wilfried Zaha from Manchester United on a season-long loan. The 21-year-old signed for United from Palace in January 2013 in a £15m deal, then finished the season on loan at his old club, helping them win promotion.

The Sun: Sergio Canales snubbed a move to Aston Villa- because he did not want to pull out of shooting an advert. Villans boss Paul Lambert agreed a £6million fee with Real Sociedad for the gifted midfielder yesterday. But Canales, 23, chose to stay in Spain and told Lambo he was filming a commercial in Madrid. Villa had watched the former Real Madrid player for months and made their move after failing to agree a deal for Manchester United's Tom Cleverley.

Birmingham Mail: Paul Lambert was left frustrated last night as he failed to land any of his deadline day targets. Sergio Canales and Tom Cleverley were chased during a hectic final day of trading however deals for both players failed to progress. Canales, 23, of Real Sociedad, turned down a move to England to remain in Spain where he is trying to re-ignite a career that showed so much promise in his teenage years.

Daily Mail: Aston Villa failed in a bid to sign Spanish starlet Sergio Canales. The 23-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder rejected an approach. Villa's Morocco midfielder Karim El Ahmadi re-joined Feyenoord on a three year deal.

Daily Star: England new boy Fabian Delph's career is going full speed ahead thanks to 'Mr Velocity'. Aston Villa midfielder Delph is in Roy Hodgson's squad for tomorrow's Norway game after scrapping his summer holidays and hiring a personal trainer instead. He hit the gym after he was overlooked for the World Cup.

Daily Mirror: Fabian Delph revealed a summer working out with a personal trainer has made him the perfect fit for England. The Aston Villa midfielder, 24, took only a week's holiday and worked with a trainer nicknamed Jamie Velocity- and has made a quick start to the campaign for Paul Lambert's side. And he reckons the demands of the modern game mean players cannot now afford to spend the summer abusing their bodies.

Birmingham Mail: Republic of Ireland veteran Shay Given is convinced starlet Jack Grealish is ready to play senior international football now. The 18-year-old Villa midfielder is at the centre of a tug-of-war between Ireland and England and has asked for more time to make his decision as he emerges as a genuine talent. Grealish is on duty with the Republic's Under-21s this week, and 38-year-old club-mate Given is hoping he can be persuaded to continue to wear the green jersey.