Aston Villa prepared to back out of Alejandro Garnacho deal

Villa's obligation to sign Garnacho permanently is conditional on appearances; the club may deliberately limit his playing time if his form doesn't improve.

Aston Villa have a purchase obligation for Chelsea loanee Alejandro Garnacho, but sources say the club is prepared to avoid triggering it if his performances don't warrant regular football. Garnacho has managed just 31 minutes this season and has failed to convince manager Unai Emery of his worth. Villa have decided to keep the ball in the Argentine's court: if he cannot prove himself, they will freeze him out to prevent the appearance-based clause from activating. The youngster faces an uncertain future at Chelsea regardless.