Aston Villa make Louie Barry exit decision after Celtic approach

Aston Villa are set to assess the future of Louie Barry in training before making a decision on his exit amid an approach from Celtic, according to Sky Sports.

Via their online Transfer Centre [14 January, 12:05pm], the broadcaster reported that Villa are not looking to sell Barry but may sanction a loan exit towards the latter stages of the window, with several clubs interested in the forward.

Celtic are believed to have made an approach for Barry [Daily Mail], who impressed during a loan spell at Stockport County prior to January.

Unai Emery wants to take a "proper look" at the versatile forward before deciding on his future.

Aston Villa must sanction loan exit for Louie Barry

The chance of regular game time at Villa for Barry seems highly unlikely given the calibre of players ahead of him but a permanent exit could force regret down the line.

His performances in League One were exemplary and the ability to continue that progress higher up the footballing pyramid will do wonders for his development and that has to be at the forefront of any decision made by Emery and the club.

If he is to go on loan, it has to be to the right club. Somewhere he will face some pressure but play in a competitive side in a bid to strengthen his attributes.

The longer it takes to make a decision, the less time he has to develop, and if clubs are made to wait, there is every chance they will move on to other targets leaving Barry in the middle of nowhere.

Barry's future may become clearer in the next couple of days, with transfer links only likely to intensify.

In other Aston Villa news, a new transfer target has been identified at Villa Park

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