The midlands club have already completed the signing of another American goalkeeper in Brad Friedel who has joined from Blackburn for £3m on a three-year contract.

The original hearing for Guzan should have taken place last week but will now be heard on August 1.

Villa will be hoping it is a case of second time lucky as Guzan was poised to move to Villa in January only for the work permit application to be rejected.

Since then the 23-year-old player has had a greater involvement with the United States national side which should enhance his prospects of obtaining government approval.

O’Neill said: “We are hoping for some positive news this time. We came close in January. Since then Brad has played on a few occasions for his country. I think his position has improved but we will wait and see what happens.”

Friedel is willing to offer his support to his compatriot and would relish the competition.

He said: “It’s always good to have competition in every position. I know Brad’s a young goalkeeper for the future. He’s 23 years of age and hopefully he can get a work permit.

“I’m going to do my best to hopefully support that bid. I don’t know what help I can give him on that front as it took me five years to get my own permit to play here in England.

“But hopefully, fingers crossed, he can get it and then it will be a pleasure to work with him.”