John Carew is seeking pre-season talks with Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill to clarify his Villa future. The Norwegian targetman has just one year remaining on his current contract going into the new campaign.

And Carew's representatives plan to set up a meeting with O'Neill when the players resume training next month.

Villa could cash in on Carew in this transfer window or in January or risk losing him for nothing in a year's time.

The 30 year old, who joined from Lyon in a swap deal with Milan Baros in January 2007, is remaining patient.

"There has been regular contact with Martin O'Neill and it is hoped there will be talks in the next few weeks," said the source.

"But there is no need to panic because everybody understands the situation and the possibilities now that John has a year of his contract left.

"But John has stated all along how much he enjoys it at Villa and loves the club so we will have to see what happens."