Blackpool signing wants to keep it in the family

Matija Sarkic during his loan spell at Livingston

The 22-year-old goalkeeper is due to be released by Aston Villa at the end of the month and will soon be available on a free transfer.

The shot-stopper, who has already been linked with a move to Blackpool as well as Sunderland, is reportedly close to signing for Villa’s fellow Premier League outfit Wolves.

However, it’s thought Sarkic will be loaned out to get some regular game time – which leaves the door open for the Seasiders.

When asked about his brother’s future, Oliver Sarkic told The Gazette: “It’s up to him, it’s completely up to him.

“I’ve had a few chats with him saying ‘go on, it’s a decent project here, come and join us!’

“But he’s out of contract now at the end of July with Aston Villa, so I’m not quite sure what he’s got lined up.

“I know he’s ambitious and I know he wants to go out and play games, so you never know. It could be a possibility.”

Sarkic enjoyed a successful loan spell with Scottish side Livingston last season, keeping six clean sheets in 18 games.

However, his stint north of the border was cut short after the Montenegro international was recalled to Aston Villa to provide cover for the injured Tom Heaton.

Villa would end up signing former Liverpool keeper Pepe Reina instead and Sarkic has been unable to force himself into the first-team picture.

He previously spent loan spells with Wigan Athletic, Stratford Town and Havant & Waterlooville.

Sarkic is due to depart Villa Park without making a senior appearance for the Midlands side despite featuring heavily for the club’s Under-23 side, playing in 56 games.