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Pierluigi Gollini is returning to Italy after agreeing a long-term loan deal with Atalanta.

The 21-year-old will sign until the end of the season and is expected to also spend the 2017/18 campaign with the Serie A side.

Despite starting the season as the no.1 following a £4m move from Hellas Verona, the Italy u21 stopper has dropped down the pecking order following an inconsistent start to life at Villa.

He now finds himself behind Sam Johnstone, the Manchester United ace who was signed on loan last week, and understudy Mark Bunn.

Gollini could still have a future in the Midlands if his loan spell is successful.

However he won't be featuring in claret and blue again this term and could also stay in his homeland next season.

Villa are expecting a busy month with a number of targets lined up for potential moves but there aren't expected to be too many outgoings.

Gollini is in Italy today to complete his move, it's believed there is no option to buy.