Carney Chukwuemeka may have had head turned after confirmed Aston Villa news – pundit
Carney Chukwuemeka may have had his head turned at Aston Villa by Barcelona, according to Gabby Agbonlahor.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Aston Villa’s record Premier League goalscorer insisted the club will not be held to ransom by Chukwuemeka as negotiations over a new contract stall.
As quoted by club media on Wednesday (13 July), Steven Gerrard confirmed that the 18-year-old had gone on the pre-season tour to Australia because he has not signed a new deal.
His current terms have a year left to run but discussions have appeared to hit an impasse.
Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano reported earlier this week (11 July) that Barcelona are admirers of the England youth international as they see his “huge potential”.
Asked whether Chukwuemeka could have his head turned by Barca’s interest, Agbonlahor told Football Insider correspondent Connor Whitley: “He could do.
“Sometimes, at his age now, that could be a dangerous move.
“Barcelona are renowned for bringing in quality players through their youth team. They have started to bring in better players too, Aubameyang’s signed, Dembele’s signing on and they are after Raphinha.
“It’s a very dangerous one but it’s hard to turn down a move to Barcelona at that age.
“Aston Villa won’t be held to ransom for a wage that they don’t feel he deserves yet. In the future, he probably will deserve what he’s asking for but Villa are probably thinking ‘You haven’t earned that yet so we can’t be held to ransom’.”
Chukwuemeka has played 16 times for Aston Villa’s first team, including 11 appearances under Gerrard in 2021-22.
Along with Villa teammates Aaron Ramsey and Tim Iroegbunam, Chukwuemeka was part of the England Under-18s side that won the European Championship this summer.
In other news, Kieran Maguire has issued an “emergency” claim amid a “£248million” Aston Villa reveal.