Liverpool are set to offer Republic of Ireland right back Steve Finnan to Villa in a fresh bid for Gareth Barry.
With the Claret and Blue in need of a new first choice full back to replace Olof Mellberg, Rafa Benitez believes he can use Finnan as bait.
But, Villa are holding out for a straight cash deal and it is believed the new advance from Anfield will be just as unwelcome as previous offers.
Finnan is a player of undoubted quality but he is now 32 and now seems well past his peak.
Although Villa could do with integrating some experience into the team, the Reds right back may not be the best option.
With Liverpool still failing to meet requirements, the unthinkable prospect of Barry still being at Villa Park next season must be considered.
Player exchanges are clearly not acceptable for Villa and with Liverpool offering nothing but, the saga appears to have hit stalemate.
Let's just hope Benitez ends the farce which he created by restoring not only his own dignity but also that of his club.