Goalkeeper Sorensen makes Villa switch

Sunderland keeper Thomas Sorensen is expected to complete his £2.25 million sterling move to Aston Villa later today.

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."

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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.