Aston Villa boss Martin O’Neill appears to have conceded defeat over the future of James Milner and the England winger looks set to bolster Manchester City’s top-four hopes by completing a move to Eastlands in the next few days (City 13/10 – Premier League w/o Man United and Chelsea).

Villa were held to a goalless draw by Spanish side Valencia on Friday in their latest pre-season friendly and Milner was left out of the squad with question marks over his future.

The former Newcastle and Leeds star has expressed his desire to join mega-rich City, who are 13/8 to be top north west club this season, ahead of the new campaign and O’Neill is ready to reluctantly accept that outcome.

“We didn’t play him primarily because there could be something happening in terms of the transfer,” O’Neill said after the Valencia game.

“I thought it would be the best thing to do not to play him in case something develops over the weekend or Monday or Tuesday.”

Milner is set to move to Eastlands in a deal that could see City midfielder Stephen Ireland go the other way with the Eastlands club also paying up to £25million for his services.

O’Neill was frank when asked about the situation and admitted it was probably best for all parties for the transfer to now go through as soon as possible.

“I think there’s been fresh contact,” he added. “I couldn’t tell you whether there’s been a renewed offer.

“I think there is something in that there now, yes (getting it concluded quickly). I agree.

“I think that’s for everyone’s benefit really, it’s probably time to get something done if it’s at all possible.”

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