Liverpool-born English footballer Ross Barkley is set for an incredible career leap after rlegation from the English top-flight.
In what could be a magical career turnaround, the Everton Academy graduate could be playing Champions League football next season away from the English second tier.
Known for his pace, power, and technical finesse, Barkley emerged as a standout performer in Luton Town’s ill-fated campaign in the English top-flight in the just-concluded 2023/24 season.
Coupled with flashes of his individual brilliance and dazzling skills, the attacking midfielder made 32 league appearances for Luton Town, scoring 5 goals. However, his contributions were not enough to save the Rob Edward-led side from the drop.
They finished 18th on the table, six points away from safety to drop back to the second tier. Still contracted to the club, Barkley was expected to continue with the Hatters in the second division next season but is likely to have his enduring talent return him to elite football next season.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Aston Villa are set for a move for Barkley. Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is said to be a big fan of Barkley and is ready to bring the 30-year-old to Villa Park as he reinforces the squad for the next campaign.
The move could see Barkley play Champions League football next season if it materializes.
Barkley hit the peak of his career while at Everton from 2010 to 2018. However, his career with the Toffees wasn’t devoid of bumps. In 2012 and 2013, he was loaned to Sheffield United and Leeds United, respectively, before finally settling with the Merseyside outfit.
In 2018, Barkley joined Chelsea and made 58 Premier League appearances for the club, scoring 5 goals. However, he fell down the pecking at Stamford Bridge towards the end of his career and was loaned to Aston Villa in 2020.
From Chelsea, Barkley joined Nice in French Ligue 1 for a season, and made 27 appearances for the club, scoring 4 goals before returning to England to join Luton on a free transfer.
A move to Aston Villa could see the 33-cap former England international return to Premier League football next season.
