Ipswich Town manager Roy Keane is hoping he can acquire the services of Aston Villa defender Eric Lichaj on loan.

The 21-year old American right-back is tipped for big things at Villa but manager Martin O'Neill is keen for him to further his development by playing regular first team football in a lower division and some Championship clubs are believed to be keen on him.

Former Manchester United star Keane wants Lichaj to come to Portman Road but he will face stiff competition from another manager who has links with the Red Devils. Preston North End manager Darren Ferguson (son of United boss Sir Alex) is also keen on Lichaj who enjoyed a loan stint with League Two club Lincoln City earlier this season.