Aston Villa chasing Joleon Lescott

Aston Villa have jumped ahead of Turkish side Besiktas in the race to sign former Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott. The England centre back is out of contract and has left the Citizens.

Lescott, who until recently had been a regular in the first team of Man City and England, has been locked in talks with two Turkish clubs as well as a host of teams in England.

Aston Villa, who are limited financially on spending this summer after club owner Randy Lerner announced the club is for sale, are thought to be looking to bring in Lescott as he is available on a free transfer.

Lescott has hinted that he would prefer a move to an English side instead of a move abroad.