[PERSON_NAME] are close to securing [ADDRESS] international [PERSON_NAME] on a free transfer. The 31-year-old midfielder became available after departing Bayern Munich this summer, with Villa holding positive discussions regarding his arrival. Manager [PERSON_NAME] urgently requires midfield reinforcement after [PERSON_NAME] remains sidelined until next year due to a knee injury sustained during the World Cup.

Having previously pursued [PERSON_NAME]’s former Bayern teammate [PERSON_NAME], who appears set to join [ADDRESS], Villa turn their attention to the experienced German. The player recorded 312 appearances and scored 51 goals across eight Bundesliga seasons. His trophy cabinet includes seven league titles and the Champions League triumph in 2020, alongside 73 senior caps for his national side.

The club’s broader transfer window features significant activity, including an initial £51m signing for Arsenal and Morgan Rogers’ £117m move to Chelsea. Meanwhile, boss [PERSON_NAME] acknowledged ongoing interest from Al-Hilal regarding striker [PERSON_NAME], noting that while he prefers to retain him, a suitable replacement could change plans. Villa begin their Premier League campaign against [ADDRESS] this Sunday.