Aston Villa are planning a £4 million offer for Coventry City defender Daniel Fox.

The News of the World says the former Everton youngster has been one of the outstanding defenders in the Championship this season.

Fox, 22, has two years left on his Ricoh Arena deal. But his form has alerted O'Neill, who is keen to bring in a left-back after Nicky Shorey flopped following his move from Reading.

Villa could face competition from Newcastle and Blackburn who are also watching Fox.