Date set for Aston Villa and Luton Town transfer but hitch arises over ‘awkward’ terms

Aston Villa midfielder Marvelous Nakamba is closing in on a second move to Luton Town after helping the Hatters to Premier League promotion during an initial loan.

The Zimbabwean has become surplus to requirements at Villa Park and has been given the green light by Unai Emery to depart for the sake of his career progression.

The Daily Express reports “some negotiating is required” between Villa and Luton but a move is “expected to be finalised when the player returns from homeland Zimbabwe”.

Since, however, a conflicting claim has emerged as Sky Sports journalist Lyall Thomas says Nakamba’s wages are “difficult to match” to join Rob Edwards’ side on a permanent basis.

Luton are working on it and are eager to make it a long-term contract but another loan will be considered if the wage structure cannot be agreed. Villa, on the other hand, would prefer a sale.

Nakamba quickly became a fan favourite at Kenilworth Road as he made 17 Championship appearances during the second half of last season and was key to the club reaching a play-off spot.

Plenty of work remained as the Hatters had to see off both Sunderland and Coventry City to claim their first top-flight promotion since 1982, but it was made easier by Nakamba’s marvelous work rate.

It’s unclear what fee it will take for the 29-year-old to complete his switch from Aston to Luton but his current market value - as per Transfermarkt - is around £3.45 million.