England striker Emile Heskey was on the verge of signing for title-chasing Aston Villa today after they agreed a 3.5 million pounds fee with Wigan Athletic.

Villa's website (www.avfc.co.uk) said the 31-year-old Heskey was discussing personal terms.

Heskey began his career at Leicester City in 1994 and made his big breakthrough when Martin O'Neill, now Villa's manager, was in charge of the club.

Villa are pushing hard for a Champions League spot and are fourth in the Premier League, just three points behind leaders Manchester United.

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