Villa could use Reo-Coker as bait

Spurs boss Harry Redknapp is keen on Reo-Coker and made an unsuccessful enquiry for the midfielder in January, as well as trying to sign him when manager of Portsmouth.

Claret and Blue winger Ashley Young was Redknapp's number one choice but Martin O'Neill, already facing up to life without Martin Laursen and Gareth Barry, is unwilling to lose another of his prized assets.

Bentley confirmed this week he is in talks over a move to Villa, while a chance to revive their careers in the Midlands for Nottingham-born pair Jenas and Huddlestone would also be likely to appeal.

Sunderland and Everton are also thought to be monitoring Reo-Coker's situation.

Another midfield option continues to be Standard Liege midfielder Steven Defour, with the player's agent confirming the Belgian would be keen to join Villa.

Paul Stefani said: "There has been a lot of interest but Standard have yet to receive any official bids.

"Villa and Liverpool are great clubs where Steven would certainly enjoy playing."

Looking to the season ahead, Villa's Premier League trip to West Ham on Tuesday August 18 has been postponed due to European commitments.

Martin O'Neill's side are scheduled to play their Europa League play-off round first leg, which offers entry to the group stages, on August 19 or 20.

And the Villa boss will no longer get the chance to renew acquaintances with former club Celtic on July 29, after the Hoops pulled out of the Peace Cup.

They have been replaced by Mexican side Atlante.