The Republic of Ireland stopper has endured a tough campaign at Eastlands after losing the No 1 jersey to Joe Hart.
In demand: Villa are among a host of clubs interested in City stopper Given
Given featured for City just four times, before undergoing surgery on his shoulder in February - an operation which is likely to keep him sidelined for the rest of the season.
City are keen to keep hold of Given, but the former Newcastle keeper is desperate to push through a transfer, and is likely to be granted his request.
Out in the cold: Friedel's contract expires at the end of the season
Aston Villa's current No 1 Brad Friedel is out of contract in the summer, and Gerard Houllier views Given as the ideal replacement for the veteran goalkeeper.
Given still has two years to run on his deal at Eastlands, and a transfer is likely to cost Villa in the region of ?5million.
Villa are unlikely to match City's ?80,000-a-week wages, but Given, 34, is said to be willing to take a pay-cut in a bid for first-team football.
?Given undergoes shoulder surgery but is unlikely to play for Man City againGolden Oldies: Why are goalkeepers playing well into their 40s?Aston Villa FC news, features and opinion ?Explore more:People: Shay Given, Joe Hart, Gerard Houllier Places: Newcastle, Republic of Ireland
Source: Daily Mail
Source: Daily Mail