Villa reveal Downing request
Aston Villa have revealed Stewart Downing handed in a transfer request prior to accepting a £20million bid from Liverpool for the winger.Liverpool have moved a step closer to landing the England international after agreeing a deal with Villa with Downing set for talks with the Anfield outfit on Thursday.
Villa were keen to keep hold of Downing, but they were forced to accept his departure after he handed in an official transfer request on Wednesday.
Villa's chief executive Paul Faulkner confirmed Downing handed in a transfer request and that they are now working on finding a replacement for the former Middlesbrough man.
Request
"I can confirm that we have reached an agreement with Liverpool following an improved offer received earlier today and the submission of a formal transfer request by Stewart Downing, and have given them permission to speak with the player," said Faulkner.
"We believe there are replacements available in the market who can strengthen our squad ahead of the coming season, and we are in discussions as such. We are also working hard to conclude a deal for a goalkeeper who we believe can also strengthen the side."
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