Barry is leaving Villa - Berger

Patrik Berger believes Gareth Barry’s exit from Villa this summer is inevitable - as Arsenal looked poised to join the bidding for him.

Liverpool are favourites to sign Barry and the signs are the Reds are the Villa captain’s preferred destination as they look to replace Xabi Alonso, who is set to leave Anfield.

But Arsenal, who will lose Mathieu Flamini in the summer, are also interested and are likely to match Liverpool’s bid.

Chelsea are also in the frame, especially if Frank Lampard seeks a way out of Stamford Bridge.

With all potential suitors offering Champions’ League football, Barry’s future could now come down to who tables the most lucrative offer to him.

Villa’s former Anfield favourite Berger, who won three cups with Liverpool in 2001, insists Barry should join Rafa Benitez’s side.

“Gareth knows my opinion - I’ve told him, it’s Liverpool and if I was in his position I’d go there tomorrow,” said Berger.”It’s the opportunity of a lifetime. I’d go and experience it. He’s the heart of our team and it would be a massive challenge for him.

“It would be Champions League every year and he’d be challenging to win trophies every year.Liverpool doesn’t come after you every year. But I’m not surprised they want to sign him.

“They want him because he’s had a fantastic season and he played very well for the national team as well.”

Out of contract Berger also revealed he is quitting Villa for possibly one last Premier League hurrah. Portsmouth are interested.

“I haven’t decided yet but I’m looking to spend at least another year in the Premier League with another club before going home,” he said.