Move to Villa was a family affair for Lindelof

THE riches of the Middle East have been a temptation for some of the world’s best players, most notably Cristiano Ronaldo - but they weren’t enough for Victor Lindelof to steer clear of Villa.

- By ETHAN EVANS

Having left Manchester United as a free agent in the summer, the talented defender was on the lookout for his next destination.

At 31 years old, the Swedish captain is edging ever closer to the end of his playing career, and after such a tumultuous time at Old Trafford, the next step had to be in the best interests of not only himself, but his nearest and dearest.

Lindelof opted to become a Villan on deadline day in early September, further strengthening Unai Emery's defensive options.

Though he has yet to start a game for the club, he has come off the bench in both the Premier League and Europa League.

Explaining his decision to make the switch to the Midlands, Lindelof said: “I had some interesting options that I talked to my family and agent about but, in the end, I ended up deciding it was best to come back to England. I am very happy with that decision.