Houllier confirms Makoun interest

Aston Villa manager Gerard Houllier is stepping up his bid to sign midfielder Jean Makoun from his former club Lyon in a £6million deal.Houllier is flying out to France to speak to Lyon about the prospects of capturing the Cameroon international and he has no doubts that the 27-year-old would enhance Villa's squad.Houllier said: "Makoun could be a good asset for us because he is experienced, he has played in the Champions League with Lille and Lyon."He is exactly what we need at times. He can play as a holding player or as a box-to-box midfielder. We are working on (the deal). All I can say at the moment is that there is dialogue going on."Houllier also remains interested in signing Blackpool skipper Charlie Adam after making an improved £3.5million bid.