Ross Barkley latest after Sheffield United link as Aston Villa 'discussing' claim emerges
Aston Villa are reportedly discussing the possibility of triggering an option in the contract of Sheffield United-linked midfielder Ross Barkley.
The 32-year-old has enjoyed a career renaissance in recent years and was signed by Villa from Luton Town for a reported £5m in the summer of 2024.
However, injury has hampered the England-capped midfielder this term and he has not appeared in the Premier League since late November.
It was recently claimed that Sheffield United had lodged an ambitious enquiry regarding his availability, with the Blades in the midst of a mid-season reshuffle.
Ross Barkley latest
According to Football Insider, Villa are discussing the prospect of triggering a one-year extension clause in Barkley’s contract.
His deal expires at the end of the season but Villa are said to have an option to retain his services for a further year.
Villa have been dealt injury blows in the heart of midfield, losing Boubacar Kamara and Amadou Onana. As a result, Sheffield United may find it difficult to convince Villa to part with Barkley.
Chris Wilder on midfielder search
The Championship club have also been linked with Brentford’s Frank Onyeka, although Blades boss Chris Wilder is playing his cards close to his chest.
In a recent press conference, he said: “It's going to be a struggle for Wednesday now, but we're working our way towards the weekend.
"We're after someone in the middle of the park, so there's a list of players that are there. Some hit the spot and some are miles off.
"Last week, we worked incredibly hard to try and get them over the line and we are still working incredibly hard to improve.”