Aston Villa have reportedly beaten a host of clubs to the signature of former Chelsea captain John Terry.

The 36-year-old is available on a free transfer this summer after ending his 22-year association with Chelsea, and it is understood that the Englishman is wanted by a number of Premier League teams.

West Bromwich Albion, Bournemouth, Brighton & Hove Albion and Birmingham City have all been linked with the former England captain, who is said to be asking for a £100,000-a-week contract.

However, according to talkSPORT, Villa have won the race to sign Terry on a one-year contract, with the Championship club's head coach Steve Bruce playing a key role in the defender deciding to drop down a division.

Terry has recently returned from a family holiday, suggesting that his future will soon be decided.