Aston Villa are claiming that Gareth Barry’s proposed move to Liverpool is dead in the water.

After months of speculation, the club insist the deadline for a final bid from Rafa Benitez passed yesterday evening.

The club say captain Barry will now stay at Villa Park, rather than moving to Merseyside.

Lunchtime reports yesterday suggested Liverpool and Villa had agreed a £19m fee for the midfielder, with right-back Steve Finnan heading the other way.

A statement on the club website said: “This evening, Aston Villa can announce that Gareth Barry will be staying with the club following the interest from Liverpool over recent months.

“During discussions in the past few days, a final deadline to conclude this episode was set that all parties were aware of and agreed to.

“This deadline has now passed and so Gareth will remain with Villa.”

Manager Martin O’Neill later added: “Naturally we’re all absolutely delighted that Gareth will be staying at Villa Park and relieved that there is resolution and closure to the transfer saga.

“At a very positive meeting on Monday it was agreed between Gareth, his agent, Mr Lerner and myself that a deadline should be communicated to Liverpool to finally resolve the situation.

“Liverpool were informed and that deadline came and passed. Now we can all look forward to the season ahead with relief, anticipation and ambition.”