After losing their captain Gareth Barry to fellow contenders Manchester City, Aston Villa have turned their attention to David Bentley to fill his boots. Martin O’Neill will have loads of time to wisely spend the 12 million pounds that Villa have earned through Barry’s sale. David Bentley was bought by Tottenham under the Juande Ramos regime and since Ramos’ departure he has only been a bit part player. Harry Redknapp is willing to listen to offers for the former Arsenal trainee and O’Neill is ready to renew his interest in Bentley.
Another player heavily linked with a move to Villa is Obafemi Martins. Martins, the former Inter Milan striker, will lead the exodus of players leaving St. James’ Park after Newcastle’s relegation from the Premier League. Martins is seen by many as an established Premier League striker and Everton, Villa and Arsenal are all vying for his signature according to reports.
Reports also suggest that Villa are the only club seriously challenging Chelsea for the signature of Manchester City outcast Daniel Strurridge. Sturridge was allowed to discuss terms with other clubs by City who find his wage demands exorbitant. Although the move seems less likely, as he could have easily been made a make-weight in the Barry deal.
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