Aston Villa (7/1 to finish in the top four) boss Martin O’Neill has revealed that the club have not been able to agree a valuation with Manchester City over midfielder James Milner.

The former Leeds United academy player has been linked all summer with a move to Eastlands and there have been suggestions that the attacking midfielder wants to leave Villa.

City had an initial £20m bid for Milner turned down as the Midlands club believe the player to be worth at least £24m.

Villa manager O’Neill has stated that the two clubs are at a stalemate over the player and is uncertain of what might happen in the future.

He said: “The latest state of play is Manchester City have gone as far as they want to.

“We’ll wait with baited breath on that one, myself included.”

Milner had an excellent season last year at Villa Park and was reported to have attracted interest from other Premier League clubs including Liverpool and Manchester United.

Villa will be desperate to keep hold of the England international who was one of only a few players to impress in the Three Lions’ dismal World Cup tournament.

O’Neill is keen to see the goalscoring midfielder as Villa (16/1 to win the FA Cup) continue to push for cup honours and compete in the top half of the Premier League.

He said: “I think obviously the overriding opinion of all Villa fans is that they would love James to stay at the football club.

“But as I speak here now at this minute, my honest opinion, I cannot guarantee that, but we will see.”

Villa have not yet made a move in the transfer market this summer and fans will be hoping the club can keep hold of their best players and add to the squad.

O’Neill is aiming to ensure that the likes of Ashley Young and Milner stay, but he does appreciate why players move on to the big clubs.

He said: “I can understand totally that players would be affected by offers from Manchester City, particularly in this day and age where it looks as if they can get who they want.”

Villa begin their Premier League campaign when they take on West Ham United at Villa Park on August 14.

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