Aston Villa at now or never stage with Ross Barkley contract as Coventry eye bargain deal

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(Credit: Imago) Sun 3 May 2026 10:15, UK Aston Villa must make a final decision regarding Ross Barkley’s contract situation, with Coventry City lining up a summer move for the midfielder. Villa have allowed his contract to slip towards its final stages, and it is surely now or never for them if they are to trigger their option to keep hold of him for another year.

Villa’s transfer plans are set to see them try and strengthen their group further ahead of next season, but Emery could yet see a role for Barkley in his 2026-27 plans. 🔄 Aston Villa Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on signings, departures, and contract news from the Aston Villa boardroom. His stance regarding a move makes any stay at Villa Park unlikely at this stage, but Emery and Co. may still be able to tempt him with a last-minute contract offer.

Barkley out of reach for Championship clubs Football Insider revealed back in March that Sheffield United will be unable to move for Barkley this summer due to his wage demands, and that is likely to be a consistent issue for Championship clubs.The Blades showed a strong interest in him in the winter, but failure to push towards the play-off places and a potential Premier League return has cast major doubt on them moving back in for a deal. Failure to lower his demands could narrow the star’s options drastically, which in turn may play perfectly into Coventry’s hands if they are able to make it work financially. 🦁 ASTON VILLA INSIDER UPDATE 🦁 Get the inside track on the Villa Park dugout, transfer strategy, player wages, and technical leadership at Bodymoor Heath.