Aston Villa striker Darius Vassell is on the verge of joining Manchester City.
It is believed a £2.5m transfer fee has been agreed between the clubs for the England international, who is currently undergoing a medical at City.
Vassell, who had one year left on his Villa contract, endured a disapppointing campaign last season, scoring three goals in 21 league games.
“It’s not fair to say I had to sell Darius to bring in money. That would be totally unfair on the club,” Villa boss David O’Leary told the club website.
“I’ve got a budget where I have to try and get players in, but that’s nothing to do with the Darius deal.
“He had a year left on his contract, we’ve been offered good money by Manchester City, so it suits everybody all round as it stands.
“But who knows – the player could maybe go up there and fail to agree terms, so it’s not done yet.”
