CHERRIES skipper Tommy Elphick is reportedly close to a move to Aston Villa with speculation rife the switch could be completed by the end of this week.

The Express & Star, which is based in the West Midlands, claims the Championship outfit are "understood to be discussing terms" with Elphick's representative ahead of a potential £3million move.

Elphick, who is currently on honeymoon in Italy, is believed to have been given permission to speak to Villa after Cherries had accepted an official bid from the club earlier this week.

New Villa boss Roberto Di Matteo is thought to be keen to make the defender his first signing.

Elphick, who has been at Cherries for four years, proved instrumental in the club's rise from League One as he captained the side to two promotions in three seasons.

The 28-year-old was last season ruled out for a lengthy spell by an ankle injury and made just 12 Premier League appearances.

Elphick, who has also been linked with Leeds and Cardiff, has one year remaining on his current deal at Vitality Stadium.

The Daily Echo understands Cherries offered Elphick an extension to his existing deal although the length of the new contract was a sticking point for the player.

Elphick was crowned Daily Echo-Micky Cave supporters' player of the year after helping Cherries to promotion from League One in his first season at the club in 2012-13.

He was handed the Cherries captaincy on a permanent basis towards the end of the League One promotion-winning campaign and was ever present as the club won the Championship in 2014-15.