Lucas Digne: Everton full-back close to Aston Villa move as Toffees look to take Anwar El Ghazi the other way
Aston Villa are closing in on a £25m deal for Everton defender Lucas Digne and talks are at an advanced stage.
In a separate development, Everton have inquired about Aston Villa winger Anwar El Ghazi.
Villa have tracked 28-year-old Digne since he fell from favour with Everton boss Rafael Benitez and discussions have progressed between the clubs.
Meanwhile, Villa have completed the loan signing of Barcelona playmaker Philippe Coutinho.
The deal for the Brazil international includes an option to buy the 29-year-old for £33m at the end of the season.
"Philippe Coutinho arrived at Bodymoor Heath on Tuesday afternoon to complete his move to Aston Villa," said the Midlands club.
Villa added he "travelled straight to the club's training complex having landed in Birmingham, coming after he successfully completed his medical and obtained a work permit".
Last week Benitez said France international Digne "doesn't want to be here", having not made any starts for Everton since 1 December.
Several clubs registered their interest in the left-back, including Newcastle United, Chelsea and Serie A clubs, but Villa appear to be in the driver's seat for his signature.
In terms of El Ghazi, Everton see him as adding strength out wide and Villa value him at £15m, although the Goodison Park club are keen on taking him on loan until the end of the season rather than as a permanent signing.
Dutch winger El Ghazi signed for Villa in 2019 after a season on loan at Villa Park from Ligue 1 side Lille.
The 26-year-old has made 71 Premier League appearances for the Villains, scoring 15 goals, but has mostly been used as a substitute since the arrival of manager Steven Gerrard.
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