Aston Villa star Gareth Barry is hoping an influx of new signings this summer will give David O'Leary's faltering squad the wake-up call he feels is required.

Barry has been left feeling bitterly disappointed at Villa's failure to win a place in the UEFA Cup for the second successive season.

But while the midlands club has stumbled in recent weeks, the 24-year-old's stock has risen as he has found the form that once led to him being touted as a regular England international.

The re-emergence of the left-sided utility player has been one of the few plus points for manager David O'Leary, although that has led to speculation linking him with a move to Newcastle United this summer.

With three years remaining on his current contract, Barry would appear to show no sign of wanting to leave, although he is understandably flattered by the link.

"I signed my contract to play at Villa," he said on the club's official website.

"But it's another confidence booster if clubs like Newcastle are showing an interest. How true it is, I'm not sure. If there is anything in it I'll be the last to hear about it!"

Barry will be watching with interest who O'Leary signs during the closed season, with the Irishman due to meet chairman Doug Ellis on Tuesday to finalise transfer spending plans.

The midfielder insists that clinching a European place next season is a goal that has to be reached, adding: "We are all determined.

"This season was another chance which slipped away. We were so unlucky last year because it was a very good season. Sixth would have got us in the UEFA Cup this year.

"But I signed the contract at Villa to play European football. This year has gone, but there are rumours of money being there to get new players in.

"Hopefully that can bolster us up and turn us into challengers. Time will tell.

"We need some big signings to liven the place up and get the players who have been here a while on their toes, which is what is needed."

I hope he does go but apparently O'Leary has money to spend and Villa could get to the UEFA or CL next season, I doubt it; although NCL have money to spend!

He wont go, villa have givin o leary money to spend so he will aquire better players to boost their drive for UEFA cup spot

He's a class act, and Newcastle really need a replacement for Bernard and he would be ideal - but if I were him I would stay with Villa for another season to see how well they do, if they don't meet expectations then get me a plane to Newcastle

That is the sort of palyer they need at the toon. I dont want him to go though. But as I said he would suit them perfect.