Aston Villa have confirmed that former Arsenal midfielder Robert Pires will be joining the club later this week.
Manager Gerard Houllier has been in talks with his compatriot and the deal is expected to be completed before Sunday’s trip to Blackburn.
Pires is a free agent and has been training with Arsenal after being released by Villarreal in the summer.
The 37-year-old won two Premier League titles, three FA Cups and the 2002 Footballer of the Year prize during his six-year stay with the London club.
“Robert has been training at Arsenal,” said Villa assistant boss Gary McAllister.
“I know the boss and Arsene Wenger are very friendly and I believe he’s going to join us in the next two or three days.
“It’s perfect. I am sure he will arrive at the training ground in good condition.
“He’s a player everyone can look up to because of what he has achieved.”
