Ross Barkley is hoping to help Aston Villa compete for a trophy after completing his move to the club.
The 30-year-old is set for his second spell as a Villan following the year he spent on loan at Villa Park in the 2020/21 season.
And Barkley is delighted to be back in claret and blue, quickly setting his sights on success.
“For me, and everyone else at the club and the fans, [the ambition] is to win a trophy,” he said of his targets.
“The club came so close last season and were unfortunate. With additions to the already great squad that we’ve got it’s going to be pivotal for the season. Hopefully we can win a trophy.”
Barkley added: “Over the last few years the club has made huge strides since I was last at the club.
“As an outsider looking in, it looked fantastic, and to be a part of that is fantastic for me.
“Playing in the Champions League is a big incentive for me and the club, so I’m looking forward to that.”
The England international starred for Luton Town last season upon his return from France, where he spent a campaign with OGC Nice.
A few members of the squad remain from Barkley’s previous time in B6, with the midfielder looking forward to linking up with the likes of John McGinn and Ezri Konsa again.
And with Champions League nights on the horizon, Barkley is relishing a return to Villa.
“I know plenty of staff and I know plenty of the players as well,” he said.
“I’m really close to John McGinn and I speak to him often, Ezri as well. I’m looking forward to getting back in.
“I’m in a week early now and staying on top of things. I’m looking forward to meeting everybody when they return.”
Barkley added: “The last time I came, I didn’t play in front of the fans, so I’m looking forward to that.
“The atmosphere [at Villa Park] is great, so I’m looking forward to that as well as the Champions League nights. It’s been a long time since the club were in the Champions League, so it’s going to be a massive season.”
