Villa close to Gil deal

11 January 2015 23:02

Aston Villa are closing in on the signing of Carles Gil from Valencia.

The club are expected to complete a deal for the attacker as their need for creativity grows.

Press Association Sport understands Valencia valued Gil around £6million but Villa have negotiated over the fee as they did not want to pay over £4million.

The 22-year-old's wages are not thought to be a problematic issue ahead of a switch to Villa Park and it is understood he should sign a five-year deal after flying into Birmingham on Monday.

Spain Under-21 international Gil, who plays as an attacking midfielder, came through the Valencia ranks and spent two years on loan at Elche before returning to the Mestalla at the start of this season.

Villa have scored just 11 goals in 21 Barclays Premier League games - the lowest total in England's top four divisions - and lost 1-0 at Leicester on Saturday to draw their fourth straight blank.

Afterwards, boss Paul Lambert, who has been linked with a move for Manchester City's Scott Sinclair, confirmed his desire to add more flair to his squad.

Lambert said: "We have to keep working hard, we need a bit more creativity. That's the only thing that is lacking from us. That's the disappointing thing.

"Money certainly helps but we will work within our way of working. Whether people cost £9million or not you have to get the best out of it.

"Randy (Lerner, chairman) has been really good, we talk every couple of days. No doubt we will have chats after the weekend."

Source: PA