The Villa boss spoke highly about the Tanzanian striker and confirmed that the ‘paperwork is getting ticked off’ following the club’s 1-1 draw against Brighton in the Premier League.
According to reports from the Birmingham Mail, the 27-year-old striker has undergone a medical and is awaiting a work permit ahead of a move to Villa.
“We’re getting very close. The paperwork’s just getting ticked off with Samatta and, if we get that done, we’ll be really pleased. He’s a good player and, on top of that, he’s a good character as well,” said Smith.