Report: Former Liverpool Manager Rafa Benitez Contacted By Aston Villa, Strong Favorite for Vacant Manager Position

In 2010, Aston Villa's brass opted to replace manager Martin O'Neil with former Liverpool head man Gerard Houllier. Now, less than one year later, Houllier looks likely to be replaced by the man who replaced him at Anfield, Rafa Benitez.

According to Sky Sports, Aston Villa has contacted Benitez regarding the position, and he has given the club his proposed transfer budget.

SkyBet currently has Benitez, who was sacked as manager of Inter Milan this past season, listed as a 4:7 favorite to take the helm at Villa Park.

Former Manchester City and Fulham manager Mark Hughes is a distant second favorite at 4:1