Report: Aston Villa to explore permanent Ross Barkley move in January

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Aston Villa are planning to explore the possibility of making Ross Barkley’s loan move permanent during the January transfer window, according to Birmingham Live.

Barkley has enjoyed a fantastic start to life on loan with the Villans. He has scored two goals and contributed one assist in his six appearances since joining the club.

His form has certainly provided a reminder of how good the 27-year-old can be. And it appears that Villa have already concluded that they would like to keep the attacking midfielder.

According to Birmingham Live, Villa will explore the chances of making his loan permanent. It is suggested however, that negotiations are likely to continue until the summer.

Birmingham Live adds that Barkley is likely to cost around £30 million – double what Chelsea paid when they signed the England international from Everton.

TBR View: Barkley could be well worth £30 million – if his initial form is sign of what’s to come

Barkley needs to prove that he can pick up where he left off before his injury. Should he manage it, there is surely no doubt that paying £30 million would be a fantastic piece of business for Dean Smith’s side.

Chelsea may also feel that that would be a good fee given that he always looked set to face a tough task trying to get back into the fold at Stamford Bridge upon his return.

The onus therefore, is now on Barkley to show that Villa are right to seek getting talks underway when the January transfer window opens.