Leeds United must take Louie Barry gamble despite Aston Villa stance
Leeds United could seal promotion to the Premier League if they can lure Louie Barry to Elland Road with Aston Villa keen to offload the forward in a permanent deal worth £12.5million.
Leeds United were one of several clubs to have been linked with a loan move for Barry (TEAMtalk) after what has been an impressive spell at Stockport County but any deal would now likely have to be a permanent one.
The Telegraph reported (1 January) that the Villans now intend to sell Barry as opposed to loan him out with a £12.5m asking price for the 21-year-old (TEAMtalk).
Given the performances of Willy Gnonto and Largie Ramazani in that wide-left area, it may not be the number-one priority for the Whites but a deal should still be considered despite the change in stance.
Louie Barry signing would be a risk worth taking for Leeds United
The loan signing of Barry already had its risks given his inexperience in Championship football but his performances this season have been exemplary.
However, those risks are amplified with a permanent deal if Villa are hoping to receive an eight-figure fee for the forward but it may be a risk worth taking if Leeds are wanting to show some ambition.
If the Whites are to maintain their place at the summit of the Championship, some top-tier signings will be needed and the finances involved could be very similar to those in a deal to sign Emi Buendia .
At this stage, it seems unlikely that any other club will be willing to pay the figure for Barry given the fact that his only real potential has been showcased in League One and it may pave a clearer path for Leeds to pounce.
Villa may lower their demands as the window goes on and could ultimately revert to their original decision to loan Barry out and the Championship leaders may need to be patient before jumping into any deal.
In other Leeds United news, Max Wober was slammed for what he did against Blackburn.
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