Oldham Athletic have made an audacious attempt to sign Patrik Berger on loan from Aston Villa.
The Latics have so far recruited two new signings in goalkeeper Mark Crossley and defender John Thompson, while former West Bromwich Albion striker Lee Hughes is expected to arrive in August.
Now the League One club aim to lure former Czech Republic international Berger - who ended last season in fine form - to Boundary Park.
A statement on Oldham's official website read: "Managing director Simon Corney has confirmed that Latics are hopeful of making a loan swoop for Aston Villa player Patrik Berger.
"In a move that would certainly be viewed as a massive coup, Boundary Park officials have contacted their Villa Park counterparts about a temporary deal for the 33-year-old."
Berger had a loan spell at Stoke City last season but in May Villa boss Martin O'Neill said he wanted Berger to stay another year at Villa Park.
