Aston Villa transfer news: Henri Lansbury passes medical plus Conor Hourihane and Jordan Rhodes updates
Steve Bruce has backed Henri Lansbury to make his mark at Villa as the midfielder prepares to complete a move from Nottingham Forest.
The 26-year-old was set to train with Villa on Friday morning having passed a medical and agreed personal terms.
He will become Villa's second signing of the January window and boss Steve Bruce is eager to add more.
Barnsley's is another target and Villa are waiting to hear back from the Tykes after making an approach. Bruce has however played down their chances of landing Middlesbrough striker Jordan Rhodes after seeing a £6million bid turned down earlier this week.
The manager hopes Lansbury, who has scored six goals this season, will add creativity to Villa's midfield.
"Henri is here today, he has passed his medical and has agreed personal terms," he said.
"There is still a little bit of paperwork to do but it is a done deal. I expect him to train this morning.
"He is a good player and he can get around in midfield and chip in with goals, we need that and he fills the gap.
"He is somebody I have known since he was a boy, he is something a bit different and can score a goal.
"He is creative and has the ability to score and we need to improve on that."
Bruce confirmed Villa were awaiting a response from Barnsley over Hourihane but believes the club's pursuit of Rhodes was over.
"I think that one has run it's course," he said.
