Sheffield United have registered their interest in signing Ross Barkley on loan, but according to sources, Aston Villa’s injury issues in midfield have now put a potential move in jeopardy.

According to sources who spoke to Football Insider, Sheffield United have registered their interest in signing Ross Barkley, a 32-year-old English midfielder from Aston Villa. The Championship club wants to take Ross Barkley on loan to strengthen their squad for the second half of the season. The potential transfer is described as an ambitious move for Chris Wilder's team because Barkley is a high earner at Villa Park, but Sheffield United are hopeful a deal can be arranged. Ross Barkley’s current contract at Aston Villa is set to expire in June, although the club retain the option to extend his deal by one year. Under Unai Emery this season, Barkley has not started any games in any competition and has played a total of 153 minutes. The midfielder has been unable to play due to a knee injury sustained in their win against Wolves at the start of December, and he is expected to return soon after the transfer window closes. Sheffield United are willing to take a risk on his fitness as they proceed with plans to improve Wilder’s squad this month. The midfielder, who has 33 caps and 6 goals for England, has made 7 appearances and scored 1 goal in the Premier League this season. Barkley joined Aston Villa from Luton Town in July 2024 for a reported fee of €5.9M, and his current market value is €5.00m, according to Transfermarkt. Leeds United have also been linked with the player.