Everton left-back Lucas Digne is closing in on a £25m move to Aston Villa.
The ECHO understands that a deal to sell the France international is now close and could be formally announced today.
Digne has been made available by the Blues after a falling out with manager Rafa Benitez and his move to Villa Park will see the club net a profit.
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The 28-year-old's transfer to Aston Villa could now coincide with Anwar El Ghazi moving to Goodison on loan for the rest of the season, but the two deals are not linked.
Everton have been searching for reinforcements on the wing and El Ghazi's availability has seen the Blues explore the possibility of adding him to the squad until May.
Villa had wanted to sell El Ghazi for £15m but Everton are only interested in a loan.
Digne, meanwhile, had attracted interest from Newcastle, Chelsea and a host of others.
But having indicated he was not keen on a move to St James' Park, Villa became the front-runners.
And with Steven Gerrard's side prepared to meet Everton's asking price, talks accelerated over the weekend.
Digne was, once again, left out of the Blues' matchday squad as they beat Hull City in extra-time.
The £18m signing from Barcelona has not played for the club since December 1 and is now close to leaving Goodison.
