CARBONE SEEKS £38K-A-WEEK
The Midlanders realise they may need to offer the biggest deal in their history if they are to retain the services of the gifted forward. In the wake of his awe-inspiring hat-trick, which dumped Leeds out of the FA Cup, Carbone`s stock has risen considerably.
Idolised by the Villa faithful, the 28-year-old is engaged in talks with the club, but his Bosman status at the end of the season does put him in a strong bargaining position.
Several Italian clubs are willing to bring Carbone back home and Villa would also have to pay a further £1 million to Sheffield Wednesday should he extend his stay in the Midlands.
John Gregory is well aware of the adulation that Carbone receives from the supporters and he will be sympathetic to the Italian`s wishes, particularly considering the fact that he could negotiate his own lucrative contract elsewhere.
Adam Marshall
