Aston Villa are set to clinch a deal for Blackburn Rovers goalkeeper Brad Friedel.

The Daily Mail says Villa boss Martin O'Neill has managed to see off a late inquiry from Manchester City to land Friedel for £2.5m as his first choice keeper on a three-year deal.

Blackburn Rovers were unhappy to lose a shot-stopper who is regarded by many as one of the most consistent in the Barclays Premier League.

But the offer of a double-your money three-year deal - allied to the tie-up with compatriot Randy Lerner has swayed it for the veteran.

Friedel, 37, is keen to set up his own football schools Stateside when he retires and the billionaire Villa Park owner has offered him the use of his network of contacts when he eventually calls it a day.