Aston Villa are ready to sell fullback Nicky Shorey.

The Express & Star says it is believed Villa boss Martin O'Neill has decided to entertain offers for Shorey - currently his only fit recognised left-back with Freddie Bouma still sidelined - if he can recoup around two thirds of the £4.5million fee paid to Reading just a year ago.

O'Neill was prepared to sell the former Leyton Orient man in January but, despite interest from Tottenham and Portsmouth, no offers were tabled.

A move back closer to his London roots would still appear the most likely destination for Shorey, however it is understood the player remains open minded over moving further north.