Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is battling Liverpool for Standard Liege midfielder Steven Defour.

The Daily Star says O'Neill has been a long-time admirer of the Standard Liege midfielder, 21.

He will use the cash raised from the sale of Barry to Gareth Manchester City to test the resolve of the Belgian club now Defour has made it clear he wants to leave.

He said: "I have achieved what I wanted with Standard.

"Maybe it is best for my career to make an upward step. I feel the time is right to move on. It is up to them if they sell me and they will decide that I go to a good club."

Defour made a big impression on Rafa Benitez with European displays against Liverpool for Standard last August.

And Benitez has made him a priority if Xabi Alonso or Javier Mascherano leave Anfield this summer.