Reports in Spain suggest Aston Villa manager Martin O'Neill has lodged a £9.5million for Real Madrid midfielder Ruben De La Red.The 23-year-old had a hugely successful campaign on loan at Getafe last season and Real are considering bringing him back into the fold.

However, there is major interest emanating from abroad with the Premier League looking the most likely destination should he depart.

The likes of Liverpool and Tottenham have been mentioned as possible destinations, but Spanish sources say it is Villa who have stepped in with a firm offer of around 12million euros.

De La Red has himself been quoted about the possible interest and he admits a move to England is appealing.

The Spain international said: "It's always nice when your work is acknowledged by important English and Spanish clubs - it means you are making progress and that you're on the right track.

"It helps me want to do even better. I haven't shut the door to any club.

"I like the Premiership and how people live the matches over there."

The decision on De La Red's future now lies with Real coach Bernd Schuster, who is keeping a close check on his progress at the club's pre-season camp.

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