Aston Villa get ready to agree Ross Barkley exit amid latest PSR reveal
Aston Villa may consider offers for Ross Barkley in the January transfer window as they attempt to gather funds.
Barkley returned to Villa in 2024, four years after he had enjoyed a season on loan at Villa Park from Chelsea.
The midfielder has had good moments for the Villans, but could be set to leave after appearing in just seven Premier League games this season.
Villa are expected to have issues with the profit and sustainability rules (PSR) in January, despite Unai Emery‘s desire to bolster his squad amid an unlikely title charge.
Arsenal beat Villa 4-1 on Tuesday, ending a run of 11 consecutive wins across all competitions for the Spaniard’s men.
Sales could be necessary for Villa
The lack of squad depth at Emery’s disposal came to the fore at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday.
The Spaniard could look across at Arsenal‘s bench and see the likes of Kai Havertz, Noni Madueke, Eberechi Eze and Ben White, with Gabriel Jesus scoring after he was brought on.
But with several players injured or suspended for Villa, Emery looked over at his own and saw several academy talents.
The Villans have enjoyed a spectacular season, and may well have got something against Arsenal had they taken their early chances, but January reinforcements will be required to sustain any potential title charge.
The Daily Mail reported on Thursday that Newcastle United striker William Osula is among the targets, with Villa previously having shown interest in the summer, while a move could be made for Brennan Johnson should his proposed move to Crystal Palace fall through.
Gremio winger Alysson is expected to join for around £10million after a deal was agreed for the 19-year-old talent.
But the paper also reports that PSR remains an obstacle for decision-makers at Villa Park, who may need to sell if they are to fund further arrivals.
Villa may welcome bids for Barkley in January, with the Englishman’s contract set to expire in the summer.
What has Unai Emery said about January arrivals?
Emery is yet to openly admit that his side are involved in a race for the Premier League title, but the Spaniard is keen to strengthen in January.
“We are alert,” he said in the build-up to Tuesday’s clash. “The club is working and if we can sign someone to help us and improve on something we need, we will do it.
“With the players we have, it is enough to compete because we are showing it the first four months. But for the second half of the season, with the same players, of course we can improve.”
Given the PSR issues that have engulfed Villa over the past year, creative solutions will need to be sought in negotiations.
But with a potential title challenge, or at least Champions League football on the line, Emery’s squad must be bolstered.