Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has cooled his pursuit of Newcastle United striker Michael Owen.

The Sunday Mirror says O'Neill has shied away from the chance to sign Owen because he thinks Gabby Agbonlahor will be England's World Cup striker.

Aston Villa were one of the clubs that received a glossy "Come and get me" brochure from Owen's agents.

But boss O'Neill will show an interest only if Owen lowers his £50,000-a-week wage demands or accepts a heavily performance-based deal.

A Villa insider said: "The door isn't closed on Owen because the club will monitor the situation, but the priority for the manager is to strengthen in midfield and defence and he has great faith in Gabby's potential.

"He has all the attributes of a young Michael Owen."