Gardner has made only three appearances for Aston Villa this season

Birmingham are set to sign Aston Villa midfielder Craig Gardner for £3m, subject to the 23-year-old passing a medical and agreeing personal terms.

Gardner came through the ranks at Villa, making 49 appearances, but has only made three this season, one of which was in the Premier League.

He made his Villa debut in 2005 and is a former England Under-21 player.

"Craig is a versatile and dynamic player who can perform in a number of positions," said manager Alex McLeish.

"Players like that are really worth their weight in gold."

606: DEBATE Have your say on Gardner's signing

Gardner, who has struggled with back and groin injuries this season, has a younger brother, Gary, in the Villa academy.

The Blues had a bid for Birmingham-born Gardner turned down on Sunday but returned to Villa with an improved offer.

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