Villa agree fee for Leeds starlet Delph

Aston Villa are close to signing teenage star Fabian Delph from Leeds after agreeing a transfer fee for the England Under-21 midfielder.

Villa revealed on Monday that they had come to an agreement with Leeds which allows them to open talks with Delph over a move to Villa Park.

“Aston Villa can confirm that a fee has been agreed with Leeds United for Fabian Delph,” a statement on Villa’s website read. “Villa have been given permission to speak to the player.”

Manchester City and Tottenham were also reported to be interested in the 19-year-old, who helped Leeds reach the League One play-offs and was voted the club’s player of the year last season.

But Leeds insisted on dealing only with Villa despite late attempts to enter the bidding.

“Leeds United wishes to place on record our appreciation for the honourable manner in which Aston Villa have conducted their interest in the player,” the Yorkshire club said in a statement.

“The club has resisted approaches from other Premier League clubs since agreeing terms with Aston Villa.”