O'Neill confident over deals

Villa boss keen to hang onto trio

By Andrew Scurr   Last updated: 31st October 2007

martin oneill aston villa manager

O'Neill: Contract talks

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Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has confirmed discussions are ongoing over new contracts for Olof Mellberg and Luke Moore.

Reports in Sweden have linked defender Mellberg with Juventus, but O'Neill remains hopeful both players will sign new deals to stay at Villa Park.

"We are in the throes of things, but there's nothing definite just yet. We're in discussions," he told the Birmingham Mail.

O'Neill is also looking to tie Martin Laursen to a new contract, but talks with the Danish defender will be delayed until the New Year.

He added: "I haven't spoken to him yet. I have been speaking to his agent and I think there will be time enough for that probably after Christmas."

Rejects rumours

Meanwhile, O'Neill has denied reports suggesting Villa have agreed to sign Scott Carson permanently for £10million in January.

The Liverpool goalkeeper has started eight games since joining O'Neill's side on a season-long deal in August.

"It's news to me," O'Neill said.

"We haven't even discussed it with Liverpool and there would be no point. He's on loan and that's in black and white. There's nothing in any agreement for any price at all."

The Ulsterman also rejected rumours of a £2million bid for Burnley striker Kyle Lafferty in the January transfer window.