Championship outfit Cardiff have opened talks with Aston Villa to make winger Wayne Routledge loan arrangement permanent. His loan deal expires in mid-January and Cardiff boss Dave Jones is keen to hang on to the former England Under-21 international.

Cardiff chairman Peter Ridsdale is optimistic that the 23-year-old will remain with Jones' side to boost the club's push for promotion.

"Wayne has been a real hit at Cardiff and wants to stay," said Ridsdale in the South Wales Echo.

"I have spoken to Villa and they are not averse to a deal before his loan ends on January 17."