Harry Redknapp has admitted defeat in his pursuit of Stilian Petrov after revealing the Celtic midfielder is heading for Aston Villa.

Villa and Pompey have both been interested in signing the Bulgaria international who is rated in the £7m (?10.3m) bracket by The Bhoys.

But Redknapp told BBC Radio Five Live: "I think you will find Petrov has gone to Aston Villa. That is the plan and we wish him all the best."

Petrov has been O'Neill's number one target since he came to Villa although he has been reluctant to make any comment about any potential transfer dealings.

The possibility of him arriving at Villa would appear to have increased if reports indicating Celtic are about to sign Thomas Gravesen from Real Madrid for £2m (?2.9m) prove accurate.