Liverpool owners, Tom Hicks and George Gillett told manager, Rafa Benitez that the pursuit for Gareth Barry is over.

The Sun reported that the American owners are not going to sanction the transfer fee that Aston Villa are demanding for.

Benitez who has been in hot pursuit of the England midfield all summer has tried in vain for months to bring the versatile player to Anfield.

Hicks and Gillett have reportedly told the Spanish coach that they see no reason for the sale of Xabi Alonso and it is widely known that Barry's arrival hinged on Alonso's sale.

Benitez will have to look elsewhere in search of a left sided midfielder who can double up as a defender.