Owen For Villa?

Last updated : 13 November 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor

The Sun says Villa boss Martin O'Neill is desperate to land an experienced striker with a proven goalscoring record to take the weight off Gabby Agbonlahor and John Carew.

Owen, 28, is in the final season of his Toon contract and Mike Ashley snubbed the opportunity to tie him down to a new deal when they met in August.

Not only did he miss the boat when Owen agreed to put pen to paper, but he tried to off-load the England star on the final day of the transfer window.

Chelsea are ready to offer £5m for the striker in January, but that could spark a mountain of interest, and Villa allegedly want to be involved.