Liverpool have approached Aston Villa about Stewart Downing's availability.
Skysports.com says Downing cost Villa £12million from Middlesbrough 18 months ago and he has made 64 appearances after injury delayed the start of his career in the Midlands.
Villa boss Gerard Houllier revealed last month that he was confident that he would be able to retain the services of Downing during the January transfer window.
However, Villa's pursuit of Sunderland striker Darren Bent could prompt the club to consider letting Downing move on.
