Aston Villa 'working on' Ross Barkley deal as Unai Emery's stance revealed

Aston Villa are in talks to extend Barkley's contract; the 32-year-old midfielder has featured in all 14 games this season and impressed in the Champions League.

Aston Villa are working on a contract extension for Ross Barkley as manager Unai Emery pushes to keep the 32-year-old midfielder at the club. Barkley has featured in all 14 games across all competitions this season, starting regularly, and has scored two goals and provided two assists in three Champions League appearances. Emery has publicly praised him as "a very good player" and highlighted his experience and recent performances. With less than a year remaining on his current deal, speculation about his future has intensified, but the club is actively negotiating to secure his renewal. Several Championship clubs and newly-promoted Premier League sides, including Coventry City, were monitoring his situation during the summer transfer window, but Villa are determined to retain him as a key part of their squad.