Dean Smith remains coy over Aston Villa signing Chelsea star Ross Barkley permanently
According to the Birmingham Mail, Aston Villa boss Dean Smith has opened up about signing Chelsea ace Ross Barkley on a permanent basis.
The Englishman joined the Villans in the summer on a season-long loan. He has since emerged as a key player for Villa.
Barkley has scored two goals and one assist in nine games. He was instrumental in Villa’s wins over Liverpool, Leicester City, and Arsenal. (h/t Transfermarkt)
The midfielder’s performances have seen the Claret and Blues fans grow keen to see him make a permanent move to Villa Park.
Smith, meanwhile, went on to reveal that the original idea was to sign Barkley on a loan and a permanent move was not discussed.
“It’s not been discussed. The idea was to bring him on loan.”
He went on to add that Barkley for now remains a Chelsea player. Any further development will be dependent on the Villa owners and their decision.
“He’s a Chelsea player and they’ve got a long-term contract with him. That’s one Johan (Lange) and the owners will speak about.”
The Blues have a number of options in midfield, thanks to their excellent summer recruitment drive. With the club now looking to offload players, it remains to be seen if Barkley will be among those to give way.
The 27-year-old is currently nursing a hamstring injury. He is expected to return for Villa’s clash against Manchester United on New Year’s day. (h/t MEN)
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Barkley has blown hot and cold during his time at Chelsea. A difference-maker on his day, he has also struggled to impress on a consistent basis.
He has looked in his element at Villa and could play a much more pivotal role for them than at Chelsea. A permanent move could work well for all parties.