According to sources who spoke with Football Insider, Ross Barkley and Aston Villa have achieved a “full agreement,” and he will finalize his transfer from Luton Town in the coming days.
In an effort to complete some of their transfer business ahead of schedule, the Midlands giants are negotiating a contract to make the 30-year-old midfielder their first summer signing. In the upcoming weeks, they will also be working on a second senior capture.
Discussions have subsequently progressed and it is believed that a full agreement is now in place following a breakthrough in talks.
Barkley is keen to play in the Champions League next season and Villa’s fourth-placed finish has given them the edge over many rival clubs in pursuit of his signature.
Multiple top Premier League clubs, including Newcastle United, have registered an interest but, barring an unlikely late collapse in talks, he will sign for Villa imminently.
Aston Villa handed new advantage in Ross Barkley race
After scoring five goals and picking four assists in 32 Premier League games for Luton this season, playing in a deeper role, the former Villa loanee has turned his career around following some difficult years.
Luton boss Rob Edwards has refused to comment on the length of the midfielder’s contract amid questions over its length following his move last summer.
Barkley was signed on a free transfer after a mixed spell playing for Nice in Ligue 1.
Speculation over his deal comes after Andros Townsend, who signed on a similar deal when he arrived at Kenilworth Road last summer, was handed an extension to take him beyond the initial one-year deal.
Villa are also working on other major signings, with the boost of the Champions League providing sporting director Monchi and manager Emery with a huge kitty for wages and transfers.
