Aston Villa agree deal to sign Ireland Under-21 international Enda Stevens

Aston Villa have confirmed they reached an agreement with Shamrock Rovers to sign Republic of Ireland Under-21 international defender Enda Stevens in January.

Stevens, 21, was part of the team that beat Partizan Belgrade to reach the Europa League group stages and will remain with Shamrock until the new year.

He said: "This is massive for me. It's a dream come true. I never expected it to come as soon as it has, especially after the last few games in Europe.

"I grew up following and watching the Premier League and I can dream of playing in it now. Villa have had some great Irish players and been very good for Irish players. I'm a player who likes to get forward, can defend and I like to play football. I like to get the ball down and play."

Villa boss Alex McLeish believes he is signing a promising youngster and said of the deal: "Shamrock Rovers have already won Ireland's first domestic trophy, remain favourites to retain their Premier League Championship, are still in their FA Cup and have achieved something no Irish team has ever done before by qualifying for the Group Stages of the Europa League.

"Enda's performances, particularly in Europe, really caught our attention and we are pleased that we have been able to agree with Shamrock Rovers terms that will bring him to Villa in the New Year. He's an exciting prospect."