Clint Dempsey snubs Villa move

Villa boss Paul Lambert today failed in a shock £7m deadline day swoop for Fulham forward Clint Dempsey.

The Express & Star understands that Fulham accepted a bid of around £7m but the United States international snubbed Villa in favour of holding out for a move to Liverpool.

Sunderland are also keen on Dempsey, 29, who has scored 50 goals for Fulham in 184 league appearances, but have yet to make an offer.

Villa, however, will be in pole position to speak to the player should a move to Liverpool not materialise as the clock ticks down to the midnight deadline.

Lambert today initially denied there was any interest in Dempsey but refused to rule out a move when he was subsequently pressed on the matter.

He said: "I think Clint Dempsey is a top player – a really top player. If anything comes up and I think it's worthwhile I'll look at it."

The decision to go for Dempsey could also be a piece of brinkmanship by Villa in an effort to force the hand of Genk after talks reached a deadlock over a deal for striker Christian Benteke.

Villa upped their latest offer to around £7m for the Belgium international, but Genk have since doubled their asking price and unless they significantly lower their demands a deal is unlikely.

"Would we pay £15m for him? No. I don't know what is going on between the two clubs at this moment," said Lambert. "There's a few areas we're looking at the moment at the minute to see if we can strengthen."

Another player in Lambert's transfer plans is Charlton midfielder Dale Stephens who has been the subject of a bid of around £2.5m, although Villa have yet reach agreement with the Addicks.

Lambert added: "I've not heard anything back from that – I'm not clear on that. That's in Charlton's court."

One player who will see his move to Villa rubberstamped today is Chesterfield target man Jordan Bowry who is set to join the club for a deal which is worth £500,000 rising to £1m.

"He's a good player and I've have no hesitations about throwing him in. The hunger will be there for him and he could surprise a few people," said Lambert.

"We are just finalising things there. Jordan's a good lad – strong and powerful. He's played more than 100 games in the Football League so he's battle hardened. He's one for the future and if he steps up like I think he can I would not hesitate to throw him in."