Firstly, I just want to reiterate my policy that this is a blog, not a news site. I’m not looking to create sensationalist headlines to fish traffic from NewsNow and so, for the time being at least, I’ve no intention of submitting this site to be included in their feeds. I generally don’t want to get involved in speculation or gossip.

However, today’s news has a slightly different slant on it that causes me to believe that the signing of Fabian Delph is now about as sure a thing as there can be in this business.

It’s well documented by now that Leeds Utd and Aston Villa have “agreed a fee” for the player. The last time we heard such news was in regards to Stewart Downing, all that was left was a medical and personal terms. He passed a medical on crutches and we were able to agree wages for an England international.

But what really makes the case for Delph’s signature almost concrete is the statement released by Leeds Utd:-

Leeds United can confirm that a fee has been agreed with Aston Villa for Fabian Delph.

Leeds United wishes to place on record our appreciation for the honourable manner in which Aston Villa have conducted their interest in the player.

The club has resisted approaches from other FA Premier League clubs since agreeing terms with Aston Villa.

Having given Villa our commitment to transfer the player (subject to medical), we had no intention of going back on that.

(Emphasis is mine)

How refreshing is that statement? There’s a saying about nice guys finishing last, but that’s not always the case and it makes me all the more proud of Aston Villa to learn that they still conduct business among the murky Premiership waters with some respect.

I will of course follow this post up when the deal is confirmed and I’ve a feeling that this signing will be very well received by the fans chomping at the bit for quality new faces.

One last piece of information that I’ve just seen prior to publishing this blog post; Not Martin O’Neill has just Tweeted:-