Yahoo News Aston Villa set to complete summer transfer as they 'close on' Man Utd target
Aston Villa are reportedly set to secure a return for midfielder Ross Barkley as he prepares to leave relegated Luton Town on a free transfer. Barkley, 30, spent the 2020-21 season on loan at Villa from Chelsea, during the tenure of Dean Smith and he has enjoyed an excellent personal campaign at Kenilworth Road despite their drop back into the Championship.
Barkley scored three goals in 24 appearances for Villa, which included a strike in the famous 7-2 win over Liverpool and winners at Leicester City and Southampton, in a campaign which was played out behind closed doors. He has produced five goals and six assists for Luton this term and won their player of the season, signing of the season and the Junior Supporters’ Player of the Season awards.
He only signed a one-year contract, however, with Luton and upon their relegation he has decided to leave in order to look for a club which can allow him to continue playing in the Premier League - and in Europe. According to The Guardian Villa would appear to be the beneficiaries. In a recent interview he confirmed that he believes he can still cut it at that level and considers himself able to do so for the coming years.
READ: Two players face uncertain futures as NSWE consider new partnership
READ: Villa bank windfall and handed multi-million Champions League incentive
“I want to play in the Premier League. I want to play in Europe again but I'm not really focused on that now," Barkley said, while he was still fighting to help the Hatters remain in the top flight. "I feel like for the next three years maybe I'll still be in my prime years. I'm enjoying all the moments because I know over the last few years there's been ups and downs, frustrations and great moments.
"Now I feel ready to be at my best, consistent, in a great place in my head as well. I haven't had a lot of mileage over the last few years in my legs, so I feel fresh. I know it's the last games of the season coming up - but I feel like it's the start of the season."
