Barcelona midfielder Alexander Hleb is a transfer target for Aston Villa, according to Daily Star Sunday.

Hleb has been enduring a tough time at Barcelona, as first team opportunities are proving to be very elusive.

The former Stuttgart man has only made 19 league appearances for the Spanish giants since his £11.8 million move from Arsenal last year, and it is believed that he would like a return to the Premier League.

Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is yet to make his first summer signing, but is thought to be on the lookout for a defender to replace Martin Laursen, who was forced to retire at the end of last season through injury, as well as looking to boost his options further forward.

Villa have the transfer funds available, as American billionaire owner randy Lerner has stated that he is willing to hand O'Neill massive funds for the summer, and a move for Hleb could be forthcoming.

The 28 year old would have a much better chance of regular first team football at Villa Park, and it is believed that he is keen on a move away from Camp Nou.

The Birmingham based club are also looking to strengthen their midfield after losing captain Gareth Barry to Manchester City.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger could also bid for Hleb, with the midfielder set to cost around £7 million.

Hleb has not yet scored for the Spanish club, but picked up a domestic and European cup treble last season.

Barcelona midfielder Alexander Hleb is a transfer target for Aston Villa, according to Daily Star Sunday.

Hleb has been enduring a tough time at Barcelona, as first team opportunities are proving to be very elusive.

The former Stuttgart man has only made 19 league appearances for the Spanish giants since his £11.8 million move from Arsenal last year, and it is believed that he would like a return to the Premier League.

Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill is yet to make his first summer signing, but is thought to be on the lookout for a defender to replace Martin Laursen, who was forced to retire at the end of last season through injury, as well as looking to boost his options further forward.

Villa have the transfer funds available, as American billionaire owner randy Lerner has stated that he is willing to hand O'Neill massive funds for the summer, and a move for Hleb could be forthcoming.

The 28 year old would have a much better chance of regular first team football at Villa Park, and it is believed that he is keen on a move away from Camp Nou.

The Birmingham based club are also looking to strengthen their midfield after losing captain Gareth Barry to Manchester City.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger could also bid for Hleb, with the midfielder set to cost around £7 million.

Hleb has not yet scored for the Spanish club, but picked up a domestic and European cup treble last season.