Chelsea star Ross Barkley tipped to join Aston Villa permanently in January
According to Football Insider (h/t The Mirror), former England international Danny Mills has tipped Chelsea star Ross Barkley to leave the club permanently in the January transfer window.
The 26-year-old joined Chelsea from Everton in 2018. He has often shown glimpses of his undoubted ability but has so far failed to do so on a consistent basis.
With a number of players joining the club this summer, a decision was taken to send the midfielder out on loan. This saw him end up joining Aston Villa on a season-long deal.
“He’s played very, very well, he seems happy and I’m sure Villa, if they haven’t already, will approach him and say ‘If we can make it happen, would you want to come on a permanent basis?”
To say that he has thrived under Dean Smith would be an understatement. Barkley has hit the ground running and has formed a dynamic partnership with Villa skipper Jack Grealish.
With him making the right impression, Mills believes Barkley will be subject to a bid from Villa in the upcoming window.
Mills believes Chelsea could jack up the price if Villa seek to do a deal in January. A strong showing in the second half of the season will only increase his value.
No chance!
Perhaps smartly, Chelsea did not include a buyout clause in the loan deal that took the player to Villa Park. Any potential deal will see the ball in our court. (h/t Birmingham Mail)
Moreover, Frank Lampard has been touted to block any permanent deal that will take away the player from Stamford Bridge. (h/t The Sun)
Barkley injured his hamstring in last weekend’s clash against Brighton. With him currently sidelined, it remains to be seen if he will get back to his best once he returns.
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Smith has been so impressed by the player and has even backed him to return to the England national team fold. The midfielder has not played for the Three Lions in over a year now. (h/t Birmingham Mail)
Hopefully, he will return to action soon and have a real run at making the England squad for the Euros.