Aston Villa have confirmed Gareth Barry wants a move to Liverpool.

Barry's agent, Alex Black, stated on Tuesday that the player was keen to leave Villa Park in search of Champions League football.

And Villa have now confirmed that Barry, who is believed to be valued at around £15million, has informed manager Martin O'Neill that he wants to join Liverpool.

In a statement Villa said: "Gareth Barry has stated in discussions with our manager he would like to leave Aston Villa to join Liverpool.

"But Liverpool's bid for the player has been rejected and they have been informed of Villa's continued position in this matter."

The presence of Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard, who is a close friend of Barry, at Anfield is understood to be a major bargaining chip.

And Liverpool are expected to up their offer within the next 48 hours as they attempt to land England international Barry.