Paul Lambert offers Ciaran Clark, Ashley Westwood new contracts

Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert is reportedly close to securing the long-term futures of youngsters Ciaran Clark and Ashley Westwood.

Both players have been offered new four-year contracts as a reward for their strong finish to last season, which helped Villa stave off any lingering threat of relegation.

Clark has less than 12 months to run on his current deal, but delayed contract talks until Villa's survival was secure.

Westwood and Clark are both close to signing improved terms, according to the Daily Star, with an announcement on both men thought to be imminent from Villa.

Lambert has been swift to tie down a string of his squad to longer contracts in the close season, with Nathan Baker, Andreas Weimann and Brad Guzan all signing fresh deals.