Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert has confirmed plans to close a deal for Middlesbrough defender Joe Bennett.

Lambert oversaw a first win as Villa manager in last night's Capital One Cup clash with Tranmere Rovers.

He said: "With Joe Bennett, hopefully something might happen on that. Has a bid gone in? Near enough.

"I won't talk about his qualities until I know (if a deal has gone through). It's unfair on Villa and Middlesbrough and unfair on the lad himself."