Aston Villa making progress in bid to sign England international

Though tests are still being carried out, initial scans have revealed the problem not to be serious, much to the relief of boss Unai Emery who feared losing one of his most important players for an extended period.

The Villa manager will hope to have added Gallagher to the ranks by the time of Kamara’s return.

Villa have reached a basic agreement with Atletico over the terms of a deal which will see the England international join on loan for the rest of the season, most likely with an option to make the move permanent in the summer. Negotiations will now take place with the 25-year-old’s representatives over personal terms.

Tottenham could provide late competition for his signature after it emerged Rodrigo Bentancur will miss at least three months with a hamstring injury.

But for the moment it is Villa who are best placed to complete a deal for a player Emery has long admired.

The Spaniard is also keen to sign Tammy Abraham from Roma, with Villa also in talks with the Italian club over a possible loan move for Donyell Malen.

Abraham himself is currently on a season-long loan at Besiktas meaning the Turkish club would also have to agree to any move.

Villa, meanwhile, have completed the signing of teenage striker Brian Madjo from Metz in a deal worth around £10million.

Madjo, who turned 17 on Monday, is considered among the brightest forward prospects in Europe.

“I’m really happy to be at this beautiful club,” he said. “It’s a dream for me to play in the Premier League for such a big club. My family are very happy too, so I’m really happy to be here.”