Barry holds City talks

02 June 2009 12:24
Aston Villa have confirmed that midfielder Gareth Barry is holding discussions with Premier League rivals Manchester City.[LNB] The England international's future has been the subject of widespread speculation since a move to Liverpool collapsed last summer.[LNB]The Reds were unwilling to meet Villa's £18million valuation of Barry, who is keen to play UEFA Champions League football, but money-rich City could be prepared to offer the desired fee.[LNB]City will not be playing in Europe next season, but they have aspirations to become a top-four Premier League club following the arrival of Sheikh Mansour in 2008.[LNB]Barry's current contract with Villa expires at the end of next season and boss Martin O'Neill has previously stated that deal will be allowed to expire if the player does not commit.[LNB]

Source: SKY_Sports