Villa winger Downing set for �20m Liverpool move

LIVERPOOOL are to open talks with England winger Stewart Downing after settling on a fee with Aston Villa.

Former Middlesbrough player Downing has been a prime summer target of Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish, and bids of �12million and �15million had been refused prior to yesterday’s breakthrough.

Downing submitted a formal transfer request and the midlands club have now accepted a bid, reported to be worth �20m, for the England international.

Negotiations can now begin with the player, who turns 27 later this month.

In a statement on the club website, Liverpool said: “Liverpool have now been granted permission to discuss personal terms with the player and arrange a medical.”