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Highly-rated defender Kevin Toner is set to sign a new deal at Aston Villa .

The 18-year-old has attracted plenty of interest as his contract nears its end but an extension is now close to being agreed.

It’s thought that the Republic of Ireland youngster will sign a one-year deal with an option of another 12 months in the club’s favour, included.

Under-21 captain, Toner, has yet to make a senior appearance but a planned loan move next season will help him gain valuable experience.

Boss Tim Sherwood wants to keep his best young players at the club in the hope of developing them into first-team stars of the future and he’s looking forward to seeing how Toner progresses.

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The no-nonsense centre half is dominant in the air and tough in the tackle, He also provides a serious threat at set pieces because of his height and physical presence.

Last week U21 players Graham Burke, Alfie Crooks, Craig Hill, Brad Lewis, Isaac Nehemie, Daniel O’Brien, Thomas Strain and Courtney Wildin were released alongside academy youngsters Dylan Forth, Harry Lewis and Ryan Strain.

Sherwood has had time to assess those who he feels have a future at the club, and said last month: “The only thing you can do is give them an opportunity to play. It’s up to the managers.

“I don’t think we should never sign players, I think that’s important, but we should be very very careful if we are blocking up the pathway of a young player.

“Ultimately the young players from your academy will be your best players over a long period of time - I think history has shown that with John Terry, Jamie Carragher, the Neville brothers.

“Even going back to Arsenal’s best player - they have a statue of him outside the ground - Tony Adams.”

With Ron Vlaar still not decided on his future, Ciaran Clark currently out injured, Jores Okore requiring surgery over the summer and Philippe Senderos now surplus to requirements, Nathan Baker is the only centre-half who looks certain to be available for the start of pre-season.

While Toner is not yet ready for the first-team, he could make a lasting impression this summer ahead of a push for involvement next term.