Lambert to hold Cleverley talks; Southampton agree deal for Elia

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert and midfielder Tom Cleverley will discuss the player’s future ahead of the January transfer window.

Cleverley, who joined Villa from United on a season-long loan deal in the summer, has started 13 English Premier League matches for the Claret and Blue this season.

The England international has impressed Lambert during the first half of the 2014/15 campaign, and the Villa boss is hoping he can tie down the midfielder to a permanent deal in either January or the summer.

“I have the option to buy in January but I have got him for a season long loan anyway,” Lambert said.

“I would definitely try but a lot will depend on finances. I will have a discussion with Tom and sit with him and see what he thinks. He is still a Manchester United player.

“But the great thing about Tom Cleverley is he has been brilliant here. His enthusiasm for the game and the way he plays the game is great.

“The way he is around the place is great. I am pretty sure he loves his football here. He has been a credit to himself and Manchester United with the way he has conducted himself.

“I think he has played really, really well, and he has many years ahead of him. Knowing Tom Cleverley as I do in a short space of time he won’t want to sit on the bench [at United].”

Cleverley, whose current contract at Old Trafford is set to expire at the end of the season, has been linked with a £7.5 million January move to Villa Park, as the Birmingham-based club look to seal a permanent deal before the player becomes a free agent.

Southampton agree deal for Elia

Werder Bremen winger Elijero Elia will join Southampton on loan until the end of the season when the transfer window re-opens in January.

The Holland international, formerly of Juventus, made 10 appearances in all competitions for Bremen this season; however he failed to tally a goal or an assist.

The arrival of Elia gives manager Ronald Koeman another wide player blessed with electric pace and trickery. He will likely start on the bench, but could work his way into the starting XI depending on Sadio Mané’s form.

“Southampton is delighted to announce that it has reached an agreement over the signing of Eljero Elia,” read a statement on the Saints’ official website.

“The winger will officially join Saints on Saturday 3rd, January, initially on loan until the end of the season with a view to a permanent transfer next summer.”

Southampton are currently in fifth-place in the Premier League table, two points adrift of West Ham United for the coveted UEFA Champions League qualifying place.