In January, Celtic were heavily linked with a move for Louie Barry but could not get a deal done. Instead, he signed a new contract with Aston Villa before heading out on loan to Hull City in the English Championship. Less than six months on, the Premier League club seem ready to let the Englishman leave, opening the window of opportunity for the Hoops once again.
In fact, Aston Villa had agreed a £3.5 million deal with Hull City for Barry's permanent move this summer. Everything appeared to be in place, only for the Championship club to be handed a three-window transfer ban.
That means that move is off. And Celtic have been handed another chance to sign Barry, an interest they might revisit as Nicolas Kuhn is set to join Como FC while Jota remains out injured for the foreseeable future.
It is unclear whether Celtic will make a move for Barry. In case they do, Aston Villa have been advised to include a buyback clause in any deal. As reported by Football Insider, Paul Robinson said:
"I think Villa will want some kind of buy-back clause.
“I think it’s imperative that they put in a buy-back if he’s going to go on a permanent, but a loan deal would be ideal for them.
“Game-time for him at Villa is going to be unlikely this season – so whether it’s a permanent deal or a loan, I think that works for all three parties.
“I think Villa will; if they are to trade permanently, it’s going to be [with] a first refusal and a buy-back clause included there."
Aston Villa tipped to accept Celtic offer only on one condition
Well, the plan is to part ways with Barry on a permanent basis this summer. That is why they agreed to a deal with Hull City. And if they cannot bring in a transfer fee, perhaps the Premier League club would consider a loan.
Barry's best football so far in his career has come at Stockport County. In 23 League One appearances for them last season, he scored 15 goals, which is what brought him on the radar of Celtic.
It is unclear what he is capable of producing at a higher level though. But if he is available for a £3.5 million fee, it could be worth the risk, considering his pedigree. Not only is he on the books at Aston Villa but spent time at FC Barcelona as well.