Derby are reportedly ready to sell midfielder Giles Barnes in January, with Aston Villa, Manchester City and Portsmouth all linked with moves.

West Ham, originally tipped to sign the talented 19-year-old, seem to have dropped out of the picture as their rivals step up their interest.

Barnes has only made six starts for the club this season after an injury-hit campaign but is still expected to command a £5million fee.

Villa boss Martin O'Neill and City chief Sven-Goran Eriksson are reportedly considering January move for Barnes, who signed up with the Rams as a trainee in 2005.

Portsmouth have also been tracking the midfielder.