Aston Villa

Aston Villa To Snatch Defoe From Portsmouth

The latest reports indicate that the Villans are ready to table a big-money bid for the smaller half of Pompey's distinctive strike-duo...

Dec 29, 2008 5:39:51 AM

EPL: Jermain Defoe, Sunderland - Portsmouth (PA)

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EPL: Jermain Defoe, Sunderland - Portsmouth (PA)

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Jermain Defoe

The Daily Mail, that most reputable of tabloid newspapers, claims that Aston Villa are preparing to offer Portsmouth £16 million for their star poacher, Jermain Defoe.

Martin O'Neill is desperate to bolster his squad as the Birmingham-based club, who could third in the Premier League standings if they defeat Hull City on Tuesday, chase a Champions League spot.

Villa owner Randy Lerner is only too happy to support his manager in the January transfer window, and it thought Defoe will be just the first of several winter deals.

Pompey, meanwhile, have been hit hard by the credit crunch and will need to sell a batch of in-demand stars next month if they wish to stay afloat financially.

Lassana Diarra has already inked a €19 million move to Real Madrid, while Glen Johnson has been linked with Liverpool and Sylvain Distin with Arsenal.

It was initially thought that several players would leave Fratton Park to join Harry Redknapp at Tottenham Hotspur, but it seems the belts are being tightened at White Hart Lane as well.

Mike Maguire, Goal.com