Defoe 'in Villa talks'

Report claims striker has spoken to O'Neill

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 17th January 2008

Tottenham striker Jermaine Defoe

Defoe: Linked with Villa

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Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe has reportedly held talks with Aston Villa regarding a move to the Midlands club.

According to the Birmingham Post, Defoe has now 'been to speak to Villa', with negotiations taking place at the club's Bodymoor Heath training ground on Wednesday.

However, Defoe is valued at around £10million and the report accepts that negotiating a fee could prove a sticking point.

Defoe appears to be fourth choice striker at White Hart Lane behind Dimitar Berbatov, Robbie Keane and Darren Bent.

The possible arrival of Brazilian forward Fred from Lyon would further increase competition for places, and Juande Ramos has already told Defoe he is free to leave.

Martin O'Neill is understood to be keen on bolstering his striking options at Villa, with Luke Moore yet to sign a new contract and John Carew having had injury problems this season.

O'Neill has a history of signing young and hungry English players, such as Nigel Reo-Coker, Ashley Young and Curtis Davies.

Laursen praise

Martin Laursen, meanwhile, has earned praise from O'Neill for his fine form this season.

The Danish international, who has been a consistent performer in defence and has also weighed in with six goals, is believed to be on the verge of signing a new two-and-a-half year deal.

"We would be disappointed if we couldn't sort this out (the new contract) and Martin has had a great season," said O'Neill.

"We are desperate to keep him, have done everything we possibly can, and want to come to an agreement.

"Aston Villa fans, just the same as ourselves - all the backroom staff - want him to stay. He is a great lad but more than that he has the heart the size of a lion."