Sunderland keeper Thomas Sorensen is expected to complete his £2.25 million sterling move to Aston Villa later today.
Villa announced to the Stock Exchange this morning that the 26-year-old Danish international had signed a three-year deal subject to a medical.
Sorensen's arrival has been delayed by a wrangle over a £500,000 loyalty payment he claimed he was due from the Black Cats.
A statement today from Villa revealed that a breakthrough had been made: "The parties expect to complete the transaction by close of business today."
Sunderland confirmed the deal was in place as manager Mick McCarthy prepared to see another of his big earners quit Wearside.
Relegation from the Premiership and debts of around £38 million have forced the Black Cats to sell some of their highest-paid performers, with Bernt Haas and Jody Craddock, as well as Gavin McCann and Sorensen, leaving so far.
Kevin Phillips, the subject of a £3 million bid from Southampton, and former skipper Michael Gray seem certain to follow, while record signing Tore Andre Flo has spent much of pre-season playing only for the reserves.