Villa close on Lowton deal

Sky Sports understands Aston Villa are closing in on the signing of Sheffield United defender Matt Lowton.

Lambert hoping to bring in Blades defender

Sky Sports understands Aston Villa are closing in on the signing of Sheffield United defender Matt Lowton. New Villa boss Paul Lambert has made a new right-back one of his main priorities this summer and he has made a move for Lowton. Lowton is regarded as one of the best young defenders in the country after coming through the youth ranks at Bramall Lane. United are resigned to losing the 23-year-old this summer after missing out on promotion back to the Championship last season. A number of clubs are thought to shown an interest in signing Lowton, but Villa have emerged as favourites to land the player. Talks between both clubs are understood to be at an advanced stage and Lambert is hopeful of finalising a deal for the full-back. If Lowton seals his switch to Villa Park he will become the club's second signing of the summer following the arrival of Karim El Ahmadi from Feyenoord.