Aston Villa have reached an agreement to sign Southampton centre-back Jan Bednarek, according to a fresh transfer update.

The Lowdown: Bednarek strongly linked with move

Steven Gerrard has been searching for a new central defender in recent weeks, with his side conceding six times in their opening three Premier League games this season.

Diego Carlos' achilles injury has heightened the need to complete a signing as soon as possible, with the form of Tyrone Mings and Ezri Konsa also called into question.

Bednarek has been constantly linked with a move to Villa Park in recent days and it looks as though Gerrard has got his man.

The Latest: Transfer nearly done

According to Football Insider, Villa have 'reached an agreement' to sign the Southampton man and are now 'closing in' on a move.

It is stated that the Villains 'submitted a loan-to-buy offer' for the 26-year-old, with 'progress' made in recent days.

The Verdict: Centre-back issue solved

It is essential that Gerrard solves Villa's centre-back woes and Bednarek is an ideal man to come in and fill the sizeable void left by summer signing Carlos, who is set to missing for an extended period.

The 42-time capped Poland international has a wealth of Premier League experience, appearing 133 times in the competition, and he has been hailed as 'incredible' by Southampton fan and journalist Dan Jarvis.

The hope is that Bednarek shines all season long and then joins Villa permanently next summer, shoring up their defence significantly at the same time and ensuring Gerrard's men work their way up the table.