Sheffield United 'to hijack Aston Villa's move for World Cup finalist'

Turkish newspaper Takvim is reporting that United are ready to hijack Aston Villa’s move for the 30-year-old, who played for his country in their 4-2 defeat to France in the 2018 World Cup final in Russia.

Villa were thought to have been close to landing Vida to strengthen a defence which shipped six goals against champions Manchester City at Villa Park on Sunday – but could now face a battle for his services with the Blades.

Vida has made 16 Süper Lig appearances for Istanbul-based Besiktas and has scored three goals this season.

The speculation comes amid reports United boss Chris Wilder has identified versatile Anderlecht and Belgium star Elias Cobbaut and Ipswich Town's Luke Woolfenden as potential defensive reinforcements during the January transfer window.