Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is ready to up his bid for Tottenham midfielder Jermaine Jenas.

The News of the World says O'Neill is plotting to prise Jenas from Tottenham with a £12million bid.

The Aston Villa boss has seen the gap left by Gareth Barry's departure to Manchester City exploited in his side's opening games.

An injury to Stiliyan Petrov has also contributed to O'Neill's problems in midfield.

Jenas needs first-team football if he is to secure a place in England's World Cup squad.