BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 23: Ross Barkley of Aston Villa during the Premier League match between Aston Villa and Leeds United at Villa Park on October 23, 2020 in Birmingham, England. Sporting stadiums around the UK remain under strict restrictions due to the Coronavirus Pandemic as Government social distancing laws prohibit fans inside venues resulting in games being played behind closed doors. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)
According to Express (h/t Birmingham Live), Aston Villa could be handed a boost in their efforts to sign Ross Barkley on a permanent basis from Chelsea. The Blues are said to be sanctioning the sale of 7 of their players, which includes Barkley. He was allowed to leave the club due to so many new arrivals but has settled in well at Villa.
Few expected the former Everton man to settle in so well at the club. He has made himself a vital starter in the team. His best showings came in games such as the ones against Liverpool, Leicester and Arsenal.
The 27-year-old is currently out injured and missed the last few games as a result. So far, he has contributed to a goal and assist in the 6 games he has played.
However, it’s his overall gameplay that has added an injection of freshness to the side. He is now getting the freedom he once had at Everton to express himself and that is in turn benefitting Aston Villa.
His camaraderie with Jack Grealish and Ollie Watkins has been something to watch as Villa shocked everyone with the above-mentioned results. With Barkley as another creative midfielder, the attacking burden on Grealish and John McGinn has reduced.
Aston Villa have done very well this season, winning 7 of the 12 games they’ve played so far. They are looking much better compared to last season and their transfers have a huge role in that. That includes Barkley’s loan signing from Chelsea.
With his performances looking good this season and Chelsea willing to sell, it would be a wise decision for Villa to make his loan deal into a permanent one. However, there does remain a good chance that Chelsea demand a handsome fee for an in-form player.
Nonetheless, Aston Villa need to try to make this deal with Chelsea as they will be getting a player for the long-term who is genuinely talented and can help their cause.