The 27-year-old defender is expected to sign a four-year deal at Villa after a move to Greek club Olympiakos collapsed.

Fehmi Alpay Ozalan made his international debut in 1995 and has been a regular ever since, appearing in all four matches at Euro 2000 before being sent off for punching Portuguese defender Fernando Couto in the quarter-finals.

Alpay, whose move to Birmingham depends upon him obtaining a work permit, said: "I am happy to find the opportunity to play in Europe.

"I am sad to leave Fenerbahce which I love so much. One day I'll return to win the championship with that team and end my career in Fenerbahce. I hope all the Fenerbahce fans understand me."

Qualities

Gregory said: "He was mentioned in reports last season and we made a special effort to see him in the summer.

"We kept an eye on him and I saw all his games at Euro 2000. He's got a lot of good qualities."

Villa turned down Manchester City's bid for 27-year-old Ehiogu.

City offered £6m for the powerful defender but Villa manager John Gregory said: "The bid does not match our valuation and has been rejected."