Randy Lerner has proved his long-term commitment to Aston Villa by buying a nearby property.

The Mirror says the American millionaire has purchased a £2.5 million farmhouse in Warwickshire.

The US millionaire has only spoken publicly once since buying Villa in August 2006 for £64m and turning it into a private company.

Lerner, worth £800m, also has a house in London. But he intends to put down roots in the Midlands by setting up a base near the club's training ground.

Lerner, 46, is rebuilding the secluded property as he plans to spend more time in the area working closely with manager Martin O'Neill.