Peter Lorimer tonight revealed that Leeds United are close to securing a loan deal with Aston Villa that would see Fabian Delph return to Elland Road.

The news comes via various fans that have tweeted live from a Leeds United On The Road event. According to Lorimer, talks are at an advanced stage and the club are confident of reaching a deal.

This news does seem to go against Leeds United’s policy of not discussing transfers before they’re completed, but I think this exception may have a simple explanation.

I’m only speculating here but, it seems likely that Aston Villa would want Delph to head out on loan after his well-publicised injury problems so he can regain fitness. Since Premier League clubs rarely loan their players to a rival, it may well be that Fabian Delph has requested Leeds United as a destination – thus removing any potential threat of other clubs hijacking the deal.