WIGAN Athletic and Aston Villa will have to stump up £5million if they want to prise Ali Al-Habsi away from the Reebok.

Interest is high for the Oman international keeper, who was voted player of the year by the Latics after helping them stave off relegation on the final day of the season.

The 29-year-old was sent out on loan to the DW Stadium last summer after three years as Jussi Jaaskelainen’s understudy but has already indicated he is unwilling to play second fiddle again.

Adam Bogdan’s impressive performances this term have convinced Owen Coyle he can cash in on Al-Habsi, but with several interested parties, the Whites find themselves in a very strong selling position.

Wigan boss Roberto Martinez said yesterday that his number one priority was to secure the former firefighter on a permanent deal but he will face stiff competition from Villa, who are resigned to losing regular number one Brad Friedel this summer.

Arsenal and Manchester City have also watched the former Lyn Oslo star, who was signed by Sam Allardyce in January 2006.

Al-Habsi dislodged Chris Kirkland to become Wigan’s first choice just a few weeks into the new season and will be the club’s number one target this summer.

“Ali has had a magnificent season and now is the time to sit down and have a three-way conversation,” said Latics boss Martinez.

“I don't know how much Bolton want [for him]. It is one of those situations where we would make every single effort that we can. If anybody deserves our effort to bring him in, it is Ali.

“If we are able to do it is impossible to tell, but we will work as hard as we can to make it happen because he has been phenomenal from day one. He has [also] connected with the fans and you don't get that too easily.”

Villa’s interest could be affected by doubts over manager Gerard Houllier’s position, with the Frenchman currently sidelined after heart problems.

A decision is expected soon on whether the 63-year-old will be allowed to continue in his position, although reports earlier this week suggested his recovery was well on course.