Villa in £7million swoop for Clint Dempsey

Villa boss Paul Lambert today made a surprise deadline day swoop for Fulham forward Clint Dempsey - but the player is likely to join Liverpool.

The Express & Star understands that Fulham accepted a bid of around £7m from Villa for the American international last night although the player is believed to have his heart set on Anfield.

However, should his transfer to Merseyside collapse Villa will be in pole position to speak to the player as the clock ticks down to the midnight deadline.

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

Lambert said: "I think he's a top player Clint Dempsey – 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 at the moment."

One player who will definitely 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. No whatsoever. 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 over a 100 games in the Football League so he's battle hardened.

"He's also one for the future as well and if he steps up to the plate like I think he can then I would not hesitate to throw him in."