Is Aston Villa's James Milner Worth Manchester City's £20m Bid?

Two seasons ago it was Robinho, and a British transfer record of £32.4 million, as  Manchester City's mega-bucks marquee signing.

At the beginning of the 2009/10 campaign, Carlos Tevez, Emmanuel Adebayor, Kolo Toure, Joleon Lescott, and Gareth Barry were the star names tipped to bring Champions League glory to Eastlands.

And now, heading into 2010/11, it's James Milner that Manchester City want—for £20 million.

Previously there was speculation linking Milner with a move to City's rivals Manchester United, who were reportedly attempting to lure the midfield maestro to Old Trafford for £24 million.

If anything, it begs the question: Would Manchester City's £20 million bid be enough to secure Milner's services, if United were apparently willing to offer more?

In any case, one can evidently see why Milner is catching the eye of the biggest clubs in the Premier League.

The Aston Villa playmaker has recently been named the PFA Young Player of the Year, beating off competition from Wayne Rooney, Cesc Fabregas and Joe Hart.

Also, Villa's star man is a full English international who is set to be a definite in Fabio Capello's final 23-man World Cup squad heading to South Africa.

Furthermore, the former Leeds and Newcastle United player is very versatile, being able to operate on either wing, in midfield, or even at left-back, where he has played occasionally for England.

At the start of the season, Milner made the successful transition from winger to central midfielder, and as any person playing the game would know, that's a tough thing to do.

A very credible return of 12 goals of a high standard from midfield, as well as his numerous assists, combined with his ability to play defence-splitting passes and tantalising crosses into the penalty area, are just some of the reasons why Milner is a very useful addition to any squad.

As well as City and United, Premier League and FA Cup champions Chelsea are also reportedly keeping a close eye on Milner; not surprising considering Portuguese midfielder Deco looks set to leave for Brazil and Fluminense.

However, it is Manchester City who appear most serious with their interest, and with their midfield lacking a bit of spark at times, Milner's creativity could perhaps be the key to unlocking trophy-laden success.

However, it seems £20 million will not be enough to prize away Milner from Villa Park—according to the fans, anyhow.

Many among Aston Villa circles would like to see a player exchange in any negotiations that will result in Milner leaving the Midlands club.

Players like Stephen Ireland, Michael Johnson, and Shaun Wright-Phillips have been touted as potential exchange players Villa fans would like to see, along with a fee of around £10-15 million for the departing Milner.

But even if Manchester City are serious with their offer of £20million, it seems likely that it won't take them very far in terms of transfer negotiations.

Aston Villa owner Randy Lerner told English tabloid the Daily Mail , "I'm not worried about losing James Milner. I think James will play for Aston Villa and should play for Aston Villa.

"I don't worry about him leaving because he is wanted at this club."

Is Milner worth £20 million? No, he probably isn't. What he most likely is worth, though, is far more than that.