Liverpool bid for Barry confirmed

[Beefy]

Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has confirmed Liverpool have made a bid for Gareth Barry.

Reports earlier on Friday had suggested Liverpool had made a firm move to try and lure Barry to Anfield by making an approach to Villa.

The England international's future has been the subject of speculation in recent weeks with Chelsea also thought to be keen on his signature.

Barry, who has two years to run on his current contract, recently admitted he might have to consider his future at Villa as he wants to be challenging for honours at this stage of his career.

O'Neill confirmed Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez had offered a player-exchange for Barry with reports suggesting Scott Carson or Peter Crouch could be included in any deal for Barry.

Carson is currently on a season-long loan at Villa Park from Liverpool, while Crouch's future at Anfield is up in the air as he has struggled to hold down a place in the side this season.

It now remains to be seen if the two clubs can strike a deal with O'Neill thought to be interested in bringing Crouch back to Villa Park.