Aston Villa are making a late move for Lille defender Adil Rami.

French sources say Rami's move to Valencia is all but finalised - with negotiations being at an advanced stage on Christmas Eve.

But the Mail on Sunday says Villa boss Gerard Houllier is fighting Valencia to sign the £5million French defender.

Rami has also been linked with Liverpool this season.

 It's all kicking off again! Click here for the No1 coverage of Aston Villa's winter market transfer news.