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Aston Villa have announced they are set to complete the signing of French midfielder Yacouba Sylla from Ligue 2 side Clermont Foot.
With just hours to spare before the 11pm transfer deadline, Sylla will become the first new arrival of the January transfer window for Villa, who are currently 19th in the Barclays Premier League.
A statement on Villa's official website said: "The 22-year-old midfield player has passed a medical and only the formalities remain, with both clubs due to finalise paperwork before Sylla's registration is lodged with the Premier League and the transfer receives international clearance."
The statement continued: "He will train tomorrow at Bodymoor Heath with his new team-mates and will be eligible to play against Everton on Saturday at Goodison Park."
The defensive-minded player has represented France at Under-21 level.
Press Association
