According to Sport, Barcelona are now interested in luring Arsenal and Liverpool target Carney Chukwuemeka away from the Premier League.
What’s the story?
Well, the Aston Villa wonderkid’s future is uncertain, despite the fact Steven Gerrard is keen to keep him at Villa Park.
Chukwuemeka’s contract expires in June 2023, and he has been offered fresh terms by Aston Villa.
However, the 18-year-old is currently stalling over an extension, with some of Europe’s biggest clubs interested in signing him.
It was said that the arrival of Philippe Coutinho upset Chukwuemeka, and further strengthened his desire to leave.
Both Arsenal and Liverpool are monitoring the teenager’s situation in the Midlands, while Barcelona have even held talks with his agents.
Sport believe Mateu Alemany – Director of Football at Barcelona – and Sporting Advisor Jordi Cruyff met with Chukwuemeka’s representatives to discuss a deal.
However, no move is expected to happen this summer, according to the Spanish news outlet, although Barcelona are set to keep track of the situation.
It has been said that Aston Villa would entertain offers in the region of £5m this summer, if Chukwuemeka continues to resist signing a new contract.
The England Under-19 international made 12 Premier League appearances this season, in which he recorded one assist.
Aston Villa must fend off Barcelona, Arsenal & Liverpool
Clearly, Gerrard has an exceptional talent on his hands, and he must ensure that Chukwuemeka stays at Villa Park.
Talents like him do not come around often, and it speaks volumes that three European giants are interested in signing him.
Whether the Villans have to increase his £2,400-a-week salary, or give him assurances over first-team football, they must do it.
It would be a real shame to lose such a bright talent, and if Chukwuemeka does walk away from the Midlands, Aston Villa will surely live to regret it.
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