Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert says they're prepared to sign permanently Manchester United midfielder Tom Cleverley.

Everton wanted to sign the England international in the summer but failed to agree a deal with United, allowing Villa to resurrect a deadline day move which looked to be over.

"I have the option to buy in January but I have got him for a season long loan anyway. I would definitely try but a lot will depend on finances," said Lambert, who has Cleverley available for the Boxing Day trip to Swansea after suspension.

"I will have a discussion with Tom and sit with him and see what he thinks. He is still a Manchester United player.

"But the great thing about Tom Cleverley is he has been brilliant here. His enthusiasm for the game and the way he plays the game is great.

"The way he is around the place is great. I am pretty sure he loves his football here.

"He has been a credit to himself and Manchester United with the way he has conducted himself.

"I think he has played really, really well, he has years ahead of him to play.

"I am pretty sure he will not want to keep sitting around, knowing Tom Cleverley as I do in a short space of time he won't want to sit on the bench."