Cats set for defender battle

Aston Villa and Sunderland are set to battle for Real Mallorca defender Ivan Ramis, who is targeting a move to the Premier League.

Both Villa and Sunderland are in the hunt for a new central defender this summer and Ramis is keen on a move to England after turning down the chance to join Everton two years ago.
Mallorca are also willing to cash in but will not let the 27-year-old leave on the cheap and will hold out for a fee in the region of £9million as the player still has three years to run on his current contract.
The Black Cats and Villa could match that along with his modest wages so it could come down to the player to make a straight choice between the two clubs.
"This could be the ideal moment to make a change, and the Premier League appeals," the player revealed. "I want more challenges, more dreams."
Meanwhile Real Mallorca vice-president Lorenzo Serra Ferrer has confirmed there is interest but has refused to name the club involved.
"I have received an offer from the representative of a Premier League club," he added.