"If I was in Gareth's position I would go there tomorrow. It is the opportunity of a lifetime. Liverpool don't come after you every year," said Villa midfielder and former Red Patrik Berger.
"He is the heart of our team and it would be a massive challenge for him. He would be in the Champions League and challenging to win trophies every year.
"I'm not surprised they want to sign him. He has had a fantastic season and was our main player from the beginning to the end. He has played well for the national team as well. But I think the gap — not just between Villa and the top four but the rest of the League — is big. To break into the top four you would really have to spend a lot of money."