Wigan Athletic have been stunned by Paul Scharner's declaration that he plans to quit Wigan for the sake of his international career.

The news will alert Villa, Tottenham and Fulham, who are eager to sign the £6m-rated Austria midfielder, who can also play in central defence.

Scharner, 29, is under contract until 2011 but fears he will struggle to add to his 23-cap tally if he stays.

"I feel this summer is the time for me to make the next step in my career," Scharner told Austrian TV.

"I'm looking towards getting a regular starting place in the Austria national side. My absolute aim would be to play in the Champions League."