Liverpool are set to make a massive bid to bring Spain international David Villa to Anfield.

According to Spanish radio reports, Liverpool's finances seem to have improved after co-owner George Gillett agreed to sell the NHL's Montreal Canadiens to the Molson family.

The deal to sell the NHL's most successful team ever is worth a reported US$550 million (£330 million).

The deal could free up funds to make a massive bid for Villa and at the same time send a statement of intent to their rivals.

Villa has repeatedly stated that he would like to stay in Spain but with his friend Fernando Torres playing at Anfield, it could ease his move to England.

Liverpool also have a sizable Spanish contingent in Albert Riera, Pepe Reina, Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa.

Acording to Marca, both Barcelona and Real Madrid are locked in a battle to sign the former Zaragoza striker and Liverpool look to join the party.

It is now purely down to the player and with Torres in Villa's ear it may not be so far fetched that Villa indeed becomes a Liverpool player.

Talks have been ongoing for several months and, despite reports of interest from Manchester United, it is understood that there are just a few final details to resolve before an announcement is made.