]Manchester City and Tottenham are going head-to-head for Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry.
The Daily Star says Barry is set to quit Aston Villa after the club failed to qualify for Champions League football next season, and he is wanted by both Mark Hughes and Harry Redknapp.
The 28-year-old would prefer a move to either Liverpool or Arsenal – but at the moment neither club are showing interest in the England midfielder.
City would easily splash the cash for Barry and double the £45,000-a-week-deal he is currently on.
Hughes wants to rebuild his side and knows that he needs characters and players he can rely on.
Redknapp has always been an admirer of Barry and nearly bought him for Portsmouth a couple of seasons ago for £5m.
He would not be able to match the wages that City can offer, but Spurs’ bright finish to the campaign could entice Barry.