Aston Villa are set to sign promising Sheffield Wednesday midfielder Sean Clare with the youngster out of contract in the summer.

The Owls had been desperate to keep the 21-year old at Hillsborough and had offered him a new deal, which Clare rejected, and the Mirror are reporting that Villa have won the race for his signature. They supposedly saw off interest from Preston North End and Norwich City to sign Clare.

Given his age, Wednesday will get compensation for the player but it's unlikely to be near the figure the club would want for a player with Clare's ability and potential.

Clare made a real impression this season despite only playing five games for Jos Luhukay and arguably his best performance came in a 4-2 defeat to Steve Bruce's Aston Villa that clearly caught the eye of the experienced manager.

That day the midfielder grabbed his only goal of the season and was a real threat with his pace and energy in the middle of the park.

Injury has meant Clare's last game this season was against Bolton back in March.

The Verdict

This would be a very good signing for Aston Villa and a good move for the player, particularly as there is a chance he could be joining a Premier League club.

Even though he only came into the Wednesday side this season, Clare showed his quality and looks as though he could be a quality player.

The Owls will be gutted to lose the player, particularly as they won't get a big fee, which makes this a bargain for the West Midlands side.

Thoughts, Villa and Wednesday fans? Let us know in the comments below.