Luton on the verge of retaining Nakamba permanently

Luton Town are close to agreeing a deal with Aston Villa for the permanent signing of Marvelous Nakamba, it is reported.

The 29-year-old spent last season on loan with the Hatters and played a significant part in their Premier League promotion campaign. Luton beat Coventry City 6-5 on penalties at the Wembley final play-off in May to seal a return to the top flight.

Villa apparently had "no intention" of reintegrating Nakamba back into the squad ahead of preparations for the new season. And a deal for Nakamba between Villa and Luton could be finalised in the next 48 hours, according to reports from England.

The Hatters had made Nakamba their number one target after promotion, with boss Rob Edwards becoming an admirer of the Zimbabwean. Edwards previously said: "He's been brilliant, I keep joking about it, but I'm serious as well, I keep telling everyone and I say it to the lads, he's my favourite player in world football at the moment.