However, the Villa boss has denied these claims although he did say that he wouldn't stand in Stauntons way should he decide his furure lies elsewhere.
“It’s news to me. I think he’s a vital part here," O'Leary told the clubs official website.
"There’s been a few people interested in Steve and I wouldn’t stand in his way if he can get a longer contract at a First Division club.
“But if Steve was to leave and go to a First Division club to further his career, get a longer contract or anything else, I’m a body down. It’s not a case that Steve is going out and I can bring somebody in.
“But what I wouldn’t do is stand in Steve’s way if he felt he wasn’t going to play regularly here and he felt it was time to get a longer contract at another club. As I say, this morning’s story is news to me.”