Welcome back to the transfer window merry-go-round.
Villa have been on the front foot in terms of transfer business already, nailing down a cut-price deal for Philippe Coutinho and securing highly rated French midfielder Boubacar Kamara on a free.
After an underwhelming 14th placed finish in the Premier League following significant investment last term, its reasonable to expect a shake up in the Villa squad.
Activity in recent days include strong links to relegated Burnley & England defender James Tarkowski and 22 year old Rangers starlet Calvin Bassey. For those two sagas we will have to watch and wait.
A simmering story of brewing discontent is that of Carney Chukwuemeka, whom despite the high profile arrivals and influence of manager Steven Gerrard is yet to sign a new contract at Villa Park. Still just 18, the midfielder has expressed a desire for regular first team football and , as reported a number of months ago, is considering his future at the club.
Embed from Getty ImagesAccording to the latest rumours, Chukwuemeka’s agent has now met with representatives of Barcelona, who are closely monitoring the availability of the midfielder with just a year remaining on his Villa contract.
In an equally concerning development more closer to home, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are also reported to have firmed up their interest in snatching the England youth international from under Villa’s nose.
Barcelona, mired in financial difficulties, will most likely opt to sit out the remainder of Chukwuemeka’s contract, whilst Arsenal arguably now hold a prime position should they be willing to surrender a transfer fee.
Chukwuemeka made 2 starts and 10 sub appearances for Villa last season. Despite being peripheral in Smith and Gerrard’s squads, he was notable for not being loaned out to lower league clubs like many other highly rated academy players.