Aston Villa to 'unveil Micah Richards next week'

Aston Villa are expected to announce the signing of Micah Richards next week, acccording to reports.

The defender, who was on loan at Fiorentina last season, left Manchester City after his contract ran out and has been heavily linked with a move to the Midlands club.

Richards will become Tim Sherwood's first signing, subject to a medical which will take place on Tuesday, and spoke fondly of his time at City.

The Daily Star quotes Richards as saying: "I just wanted to thank the City fans for the amazing support they've given me.

"City's been like a family to me and I wish everyone the best of luck for next season and the coming years."

Villa will apparently meet Richards' £65,000-a-week wage demands.