Samba claims contact with Villa

Samba is unsettled at Ewood Park after expressing his disappointment at the decision of new owners Venky's to sack Sam Allardyce as manager. He reiterated his wish to leave earlier this month, although current Rovers boss Steve Kean remains hopeful he can persuade Samba to stay at the club. Premier League rivals Villa have been linked with a bid, while there have also been reports of interest from French giants Lyon. The 26-year-old has not received any approach from Lyon, but says Villa have been in touch with Blackburn during the transfer window. "I heard about interest from Lyon, but there is no contact," Samba told France Football. "However, there is contact between Blackburn and Aston Villa." Villa boss Gerard Houllier is trying to revamp his squad this month and has already signed Kyle Walker and Jean Makoun. Houllier has also made a bid to sign Sunderland striker Darren Bent as he looks to guide Villa away from the relegation zone.