Aston Villa eyes Manchester City's out-of-favour defender Joleon Lescott

Aston Villa are weighing up a move for Manchester City's out-of-favour defender Joleon Lescott to shore up their leaky defence.

Owner Randy Lerner is set to back manager Paul Lambert this month in a bid to turn around the club's shaky form.

Villa are a point off the drop zone after conceding 15 goals without reply in three heavy losses over Christmas.

A point at Swansea on New Year's Day stopped the rot, but Villa realise an experienced central defender is essential this month.

Lescott, a local lad who grew up supporting Villa before playing for Wolves, Everton and now City, is available.

But his large wages are an issue, as Lerner is still seeking to reduce player salaries, and both Everton and Sunderland are also interested in taking the 30-year-old.

The £10million-rated ace will have to take a significant drop and negotiate with the champions for a pay-off to join Villa.