Newcastle are close to signing Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey in a deal worth about £40m. BBC Sport reported on Wednesday that the clubs were in advanced talks over the proposed deal for the 24-year-old. An agreement in principle has now been reached, with just finer details left to complete.

Things have moved fast with Newcastle United signing Jacob Ramsey. Less than 48 hours after the media revealed (see below) that United were in talks with Aston Villa, the player is now on his way to Tyneside to take his medical on Thursday.

Aston Villa are reportedly 'accelerating' with their plan to bring back a fan favourite with an official bid, given they are 'finalising' the sale of a current star.

Ramsey would provide necessary depth and could well be Joelinton's successor on the left of Howe's three-man nucleus. He possesses the dynamism, attacking instinct and quality to make a similar impact if he can stay free of injury.

The latest transfer news as Aston Villa and Brentford lock horns to sign an Arsenal star. Aston Villa have reportedly initiated contact with Arsenal over a shock swoop for versatile forward Leandro Trossard.