*The extracts on this page are taken from various newspapers and media outlets. They do not necessarily reflect the views of Aston Villa.
Express and Star: Aston Villa still hope to tie Ron Vlaar down to a new four-year deal, despite interest from Southampton while Manchester United are waiting in the wings. Saints are poised to follow up their interest in Villa captain Vlaar, after selling Dejan Lovren to Liverpool. Vlaar, 29, only has 12 months left on his contract at Villa Park and Southampton are prepared to offer him a hefty pay-rise.
ClubCall: Paul Lambert is believed to have earmarked Manchester City's Scott Sinclair as a back-up target in case he fails to land Victor Moses. The Villa boss is keen to bring in a new wide man having allowed Marc Albrighton to leave earlier this summer, while Aleksandar Tonev has been deemed surplus to requirements after struggling since joining 12 months ago. The Villans were linked with a loan move for Chelsea forward Moses earlier this week, while they are also believed to be keen on another Blues attacker in the form of Christian Atsu.
ClubCall: Ron Vlaar says he has not thought about a move away from Aston Villa ahead of a meeting with his agent to discuss his options. The Dutch defender's excellent performance at the World Cup has resulted in him being consistently linked with a move away from Villa Park, with Roma, Manchester United, QPR and Southampton all said to be interested. The Villa skipper is set to return to pre-season training at the weekend and manager Paul Lambert is eager to sit down with Vlaar to discuss a new contract. Vlaar has just 12 months left to run on his current deal and Villa are fearful they will be forced to sell this summer if the 29-year-old does not agree fresh terms with the club.
Sutton Coldfield Observer: Wanted man Ron Vlaar has spoken about his future at Aston Villa, saying that he and his agent plan to discuss the 'various options' available to him. Speculation has surrounded Vlaar since his performances in the World Cup for the Netherlands, but while a host of clubs have been linked to the Dutchman, Villa boss Paul Lambert has reiterated his desire to keep Vlaar - who is out of contract next year - at Villa Park for the long-term.
Wiltshire Herald & Gazette: Swindon Town will host an Aston Villa XI at the County Ground on Saturday in a pre-season friendly. Entry for the game is priced at £5 per adult and £1 for children, with only the Arkell's Stand open to fans.
Sembra che anche i merdaioli sono su Vlaar