Aston Villa and Juventus 'not too far apart' on Rodrigo Bentancur transfer

Aston Villa are closing in on the transfer of Juventus midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur but there is still work to be done to complete the deal.

Villa have identified Bentancur as their preferred option to add depth to their midfield ranks having seen a reported £25million bid for Brighton star Yves Bissouma tuned down earlier this month.

Though, Villa have enjoyed a successful window so far and announced the shock signing of Arsenal defender Calum Chambers yesterday who follows Philippe Coutinho, Lucas Digne and goalkeeper Robin Olsen in joining the club this January.

A midfielder is expected to be next through the door at Villa Park and Bentancur has been heavily linked with a move.

According to Sky Italy, Villa have seen a bid in the region of £20million for Bentancur rejected by Juventus, structured as £16.5million up front with an additional £4million worth of bonuses.

The Italian giants reportedly want around £21million up front to be interested in a sale.

Though, reports suggest the two clubs are 'not too far apart in valuation' , with Juventus demanding £21million due to a 30% sell-on clause that will go to his former club Boca Juniors.