Aston Villa are closing a deal to re-sign Ross Barkley permanently, four years after the midfielder joined on loan from Chelsea. Villa want to strengthen their squad for their first season in the Champions League or European Cup since 1982-83.
The 30-year-old, capped by England 33 times, stood out for Luton when he arrived on a free transfer last summer after a spell in Ligue 1 with Nice. Luton, who have relegated, never revealed the length of Barkley's contract, but it is believed to last through next season. Last month, Barkley said: “I want to play in the Premier League. “I want to play in Europe again… I feel like for the next three years maybe I will still be in my best years.”
Barkley's arrival for a modest fee would represent astute business and a low-risk deal similar to when Villa signed Youri Tielemans at the end of his contract with Leicester. Barkley has also been linked with Manchester United. Villa wants two midfielders, a full-back and a forward. They are among the clubs interested in signing Conor Gallagher from Chelsea.
Villa must be careful with profitability and sustainability standards despite the windfall of Champions League qualification. In their latest accounts, covering 2022-23, Villa recorded a loss of £119.6m. One of his main tasks will be to get rid of Philippe Coutinho, who was on loan last season in Qatar with Al-Duhail. They may also have to consider serious offers for Jacob Ramsey, their local midfielder.
Villa confirmed a multi-year kit deal with Adidas on Monday. In September Villa complained to his supplier Castore about the quality of their jerseys after players reported concerns. Villa business president Chris Heck said the partnership with Adidas was part of a campaign to “consistently position ourselves among the best football clubs globally”.
