According to the Daily Mirror, former-Manchester City defender Micah Richards is set to join Aston Villa as a free agent, after rejecting a more lucrative offer from north east side Sunderland.
The 26-year-old will reportedly sign a £65,000-a-week contract with the Midlands club next week when he returns from holiday.
Released
Richards has just been released by City, after spending last season on-loan at Italian club Fiorentina. He made just 20 appearances during his time in Florence and is obviously looking to return home for next season.
Wanted
The fact that Richards was available on a free transfer was an obvious attraction to Premier League clubs. The likes of West Ham and Everton had been linked with a move for the England international defender.
However, it seems that Villa boss Tim Sherwood has persuaded Richards that his future lies with the Villans, as they look to experience a better campaign than last season.
The former-Spurs boss is believed to have told Richards that he will be a key player for his side. Richards is looking for first team football next season to aide his bid for a place in the England squad.
Shrewd
Micah Richards has not quite yet fulfilled the early promise of his career, as injuries have hampered his development. However, the versatile defender looked to be fully-fit with the Viola and a return to the Premier League may revive his career.
With the wealth of experience that Richards has gathered in his career and with the defender being just 26 he could be a shrewd signing for Villa and Tim Sherwood.
Is Villa the right club for Richards to finally fulfil his potential?
