Report: Villarreal close to Eric Bailly signing

Villarreal are reportedly on the verge of signing Espanyol defender Eric Bailly.

Speculation of a move gathered pace on Monday when it was reported that the Yellow Submarine had launched an official offer for the 20-year-old centre-back.

Espanyol rejected the opening bid, but according to Sillas Gol, Villarreal returned with an improved offer that has been accepted by the Barcelona-based side.

It is understood that the transfer will be announced on Tuesday afternoon, with Marcelino's side beating off a host of competition to land the talented defender.

Baily, who is a full Ivory Coast international, has been with Espanyol since 2011.