Liverpool set to sign Villa midfielder as Lucas packs his bags

Liverpool are closing in on the signing Fabian Delph from Aston Villa, a move which will see Lucas Leiva join Napoli or Inter Milan.

The Anfield club have been chasing impressive England midfielder Delph form some-time after watching a number of performances this season and it is understood that positive talks between them and Aston Villa have taken place in recent days.

The move would see Brendan Rodgers strengthen his midfield area and potentially provide a replacement for Steven Gerrard, who will leave the club in June.

Delph’s potential arrival will see Lucas Leiva leave the club after weeks of speculation linking him with a move to Italian football, with either Inter Milan or Napoli.

The Brazilian midfielder is keen on the latter and wants to work with former Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez.

Lucas, who turned 28 this month, is likely to leave only on loan but with a buying option included in any such deal.