Aston Villa 'do not want Ross Barkley on a permanent deal'

Aston Villa are reportedly not interested in signing Chelsea attacker Ross Barkley on a permanent deal.

The 27-year-old joined Dean Smith's side on loan last September and has been a regular during the 2020-21 campaign, making 19 appearances, contributing three goals and one assist in the process.

Barkley was an important player for Villa in the early stages of the season but has mainly been used off the bench in recent weeks, having fallen down the pecking order.

According to TEAMtalk, Smith's team have already informed Chelsea that they will not be looking to sign the England international in the upcoming market.

The report claims that Villa have been unhappy with some of Barkley's off-the-field activity, meaning that he does not have a long-term future at the club.

West Ham United are allegedly keeping a close eye on developments as they weigh up a summer bid.