Aston Villa in waiting game over Steve Sidwell

May 30 2008 By Bill Howell

VILLA are having to play a waiting game before they can unveil Steve Sidwell as they first summer signing because Chelsea are unwilling to let him out until they appoint their new manager.

Martin O'Neill was all set to announce the £4.5million transfer of the former Reading player this week and is now left to drag his heels.

But Sidwell's arrival is all-but sealed and will be financed by the sale of Scottish international Shaun Maloney who is wanted by Sunderland.

O'Neill's pursuit of a goalkeeper rests on Manchester United's decision to allow Ben Foester out on loan whilst they will try again for a work permit for Brad Guzan.

Tottenham's Aaron Lennon is thought to top his right-sided wish-list which also includes team-mate Tom Huddlestone, although the futures of Shaun Wright-Phillips at Chelsea and James Milner at Newcastle are, naturally, being viewed as alternatives as O'Neill continues to build an English core to his squad.

Meanwhile, reports in Itlay have suggested that Villa are on standby should the transfer of Argentinian right-back Hugo Campagnaro to Juventus fall through.

The Sampdoria defender's agent has revealed that both Villa and Tottenham are chasing his client.

Massimo Camarlinghi said: "The negotiations with Juve are moving forward, but I must add that I plan a trip to England to consider the offers of some clubs. Aston Villa, Tottenham and a top club seem concerned."