Villa will move to fend off interest from Wigan by offering Barry Bannan a new deal and the teenage starlet is ready to sign on the dotted line.

Bannan, one of the stars of Villa’s Premier Reserve League-winning side, has just one year remaining on his existing Villa Park deal, with both the Latics and Championship side Derby ready to pounce.

But the Express & Star understands Villa are keen to keep hold of the Scotland under-21 star, with a new contract offer expected to be tabled next week.

Now the promising 19-year-old has confirmed he sees Villa Park as the ideal place for him to continue his progression – so long as the deal is right.

He said: “I’ve got a year left, so hopefully I’ve done enough to prove to the gaffer I’ve earned a new contract.

“Ultimately it’s up to him, but if I get one I’ll sign it straightaway, because I love this club. They’ve been brilliant for me since I’ve been here.”

The teenage midfielder has already tasted first-team action, following up his debut against Hamburg with a start against CSKA Moscow in February.

With Gareth Barry’s departure having left a void in the centre of Villa’s midfield Bannan, himself a left-footer, more regular further opportunities could be on the horizon.

He said: “The aim now is to push on even further next season.

“It’s been hard to break through, because of how well the team has done recently, but the manager has shown he is ready to give young players a shot if they’re good enough.”