Wantaway Diego is on Villa radar

Brazil playmaker Diego is on Villa's radar after issuing a come-and-get-me plea to Premier League clubs.

But Villa boss Alex McLeish would need to move on several of the club's big earners in order to accommodate the Wolfsburg star.

The departure of Ashley Young and Nigel Reo-Coker has given McLeish room for manoeuvre, although he has made a new goalkeeper and a winger his priority, especially if Stewart Downing moves to Liverpool.

Wolfsburg are keen to get rid of the Brazil international after he fell out with the German club's management.

And, with three years left on his contract, the 26-year-old could be allowed to leave on a season-long loan.

Diego, who was linked with the claret and blues in 2008 when Martin O'Neill was in charge, confirmed that there has been interest from Premier League clubs but refused to confirm if Villa were among them.

He said: "I prefer not to mention the names of clubs out of respect for the managers and the owners, but it's true that there is contact with some clubs in England.

"Of course I will give these offers special attention because it's my dream to play in the Premier League. At this moment, England is where I want to play.

"We are just starting to have conversations with clubs so it's too early to say where I will be going, but it would be perfect if I can play in the Premier League.

"I have no idea in this moment of the exact fee, but I think because Wolfsburg and myself both want the same solution it will not be so difficult.

"When everybody wants the same outcome it makes things easier but I have not been told a number yet.

"I think it's best if the club and myself go in different directions. I hope the move can work out well for everyone."