Villa close to agreeing Petrov deal

Aston Villa are edging closer to signing Celtic midfielder Stilian Petrov with the clubs close to agreeing an initial £6million fee.

The Bulgarian international is currently on international duty but his representatives have held talks with Villa. Villa manager Martin O'Neill has targeted the 27-year-old since replacing David O'Leary three-and-a-half weeks ago.

The Irishman worked alongside Petrov during his five years in charge of Celtic and is keen to renew that partnership.

O'Neill is also contemplating offering a short-term deal to an ex-Celtic player in defender Didier Agathe.

Agathe, who had a trial spell with Blackburn earlier in the summer, has been training with Villa for the past week.

O'Neill has made it clear he must bring in new blood before the transfer window closes on Thursday but has stressed the need to sign quality players.

Petrov falls into that category and the eventual fee could rise to £7million depending on appearances and incentive-linked agreements.