Aston Villa boss Unai Emery meets Ross Barkley for talks at the Belfry - sources
Aston Villa boss Unai Emery met with Ross Barkley at the Belfry golf resort last week for talks, sources have told Football Insider.
Football Insider exclusively broke the news on 18 May that Villa had opened talks with Barkley before revealing on 25 May a “full agreement” was in place to take him to Villa Park.
Emery then had face-to-face talks with the 30-year-old at the iconic golf venue in the Midlands to explain in detail how he fits into his plans for next season and what his role will be within the team.
The English midfielder is said to be excited about the prospect of working under the Spanish boss ahead of completing his switch to Villa Park.
Barkley’s contract with Luton was a one-year agreement with a 12-month extension option, but a clause was included in the deal allowing him to leave for £5million if the club were relegated.
Aston Villa beat Everton in race to land Ross Barkley deal
The West Midlands giants were joined in the race for his signature by multiple Premier League clubs after becoming aware of the clause in his contract.
Football Insider revealed on 30 May that Everton registered an interest in signing their former academy product in a bid to hijack his move to Villa Park.
But the lure of Champions League football is believed to have been a factor for Barkley after Emery’s side secured their spot in the competition following their fourth-place finish last season.
The midfielder has revived his career over the past year following several impressive performances since joining Luton after leaving French club Nice on a free last summer.
Barkley registered five goals and four assists in 32 Premier League appearances across the campaign despite playing in a deeper role for Rob Edwards’s side.
For more Aston Villa and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.