Martin O'Neill expects 'significant additions' to his squad, with a deal for Steve Sidwell reportedly imminent.
Chelsea man at the top of O'Neill's summer wish-list
Martin O'Neill envisages 'significant additions' to his Aston Villa squad as reports suggest a deal for Steve Sidwell is imminent.
With Gareth Barry seemingly on his way out of Villa Park in order to join Liverpool, O'Neill is desperate to bring a quality midfielder to Villa Park.
Chelsea's Sidwell has been recognised as a capable candidate to potentially fill what would be a significant void should Barry depart, with a £5million fee thought to have already been struck.
On Monday, Newcastle were credited with entering the race for Sidwell's signature but it is Villa that are believed to be putting the final touches on a deal that could be sealed within 48 hours.
Ready-made replacement?
While new signings have been conspicuous by absence to date, O'Neill is confident his playing ranks will be swelled before too long.
'We're in the market - strongly - for players. We will be competing because we're light on numbers," O'Neill told the
Daily Mail.
"Yes, Gareth's situation has been an issue, but we have not taken our eye off the ball.
"Bids have been going in. Negotiations are taking place on various fronts.
"It's just that we do not have anything official to announce just yet. However, I anticipate that there will be significant additions."
