• Premier League

Lambert not confident of Dempsey Villa deal

ESPN staff
August 31, 2012
Clint Dempsey wants to move to Liverpool © Getty Images
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Aston Villa boss Paul Lambert is hoping to beat Liverpool to the signing of Fulham's Clint Dempsey, but looks to be fighting a losing battle.

Lambert has had a £7 million bid accepted for the Cottagers forward and is looking to tie up a deadline day move. But Villa sources have revealed any deal for Dempsey appears unlikely with the striker informing the club he is holding out for a move to Anfield.

Fulham have confirmed Villa's offer and also have interest from Sunderland manager Martin O'Neill, who is unlikely to get involved in any bidding war.

Liverpool have spent much of the summer chasing the USA star and their interest sparked an angry reaction from Fulham manager Martin Jol on the eve of the new season after Dempsey went on strike.

Villa have switched their attentions to Dempsey after having a second bid of £5.5 million for Belgian striker Christian Benteke turned down. Benteke missed Genk's Europa League play-off victory over Lucerne on Thursday night after apparently refusing to play and threatening legal action.

Villa are weighing up whether to make a final £6 million bid, but are unlikely to switch their attentions to Stoke's Kenwyne Jones, who does not fit Lambert's profile for new additions.

Lambert has concluded a small deal with the £250,000 arrival of Chesterfield's young striker Jordan Bowery. The 21-year-old has joined from the League Two side, but is seen as one for the future.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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