Villa defender Stephen Warnock fears Manchester City’s spending power could yet force the sale of team-mate James Milner.

Warnock believes City’s unprecedented resources could force the claret and blues to accept a big-money offer for the England midfielder.

The full-back is keen to see the in-form Milner stay at Villa Park, but accepts money could talk and believes City’s huge potential could also prove tempting for his club and international colleague.

He said: “Of course we want James at Villa, but I think if the price is right it’s very difficult for a club to turn it down.

“From his point of view, if there’s a chance to play at a higher level then it’s something that I’m sure he’ll be open to.”

Milner’s future looks set to become the transfer saga of the summer, with moneybags City already having made clear their intentions with a £20million bid that was rejected out of hand by Villa boss Martin O’Neill.

But the club’s insistence that the player is not for sale is unlikely to deter City from continuing their pursuit.

And Warnock is not surprised by the attention his team mate is receiving.

He said: “I think everyone knows his ability and what he’s about and what he’s put in on the pitch this year.

“I think everyone knew his reputation before he even joined Villa – what he could be, what potential he had about him and he’s done very well.

“He can operate anywhere, he’s very comfortable anywhere he plays and he’s a quality player.”

Milner was handed only his second start for England last night, operating both in central midfield and on the left as Fabio Capello’s side beat Mexico 3-1.

But Warnock does not believe transfer speculation will affect his World Cup focus.

He said: “You only have to see the way he’s been training and the way he played last night.

“Nothing bothers him really, he just gets on with it. He’s doing well, he’s a quality player, we all know how good he is and we know what he can do.

“He’s a very good player and he’s more than capable of holding down a place in this England team.”