The midfielder was highly impressed under Rob Edwards, but his efforts were not enough to keep them in the Premier League.
And he’s set to return to a club he’s represented in the past, with Barkley joining Villa during the 2020–21 season on loan from Chelsea.
Barkley made 24 appearances for them during his season-long loan from Chelsea, scoring three goals and assisting one.
A move to Villa would see him seal a return to the Premier League and present the prospect of playing more European football.
Unai Emery’s side finished fourth and therefore qualified for the Champions League, with the club making a comeback to Europe’s top club competition for the first time since 1983.
Barkley already has six Champions League appearances to his name, all of which came at Chelsea from 2019 to 2021.
He could be one of the first new signings through the door at Villa Park as they look to build upon their success under Emery.
talkSPORT understands they are also interested in Chelsea star Conor Gallagher ahead of the summer transfer window.
The 24-year-old faces an uncertain future at the Blues as his current deal expires next year and he is yet to sign a new contract.
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Gallagher was one of Chelsea’s most influential players during the 2023–24 season, as he scored seven goals and assisted a further nine.
He played in all but one of their 51 matches across all competitions, with Tottenham also linked with the midfielder.
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