Premier League – Villa: Barry transfer saga over

Aston Villa have released a statement declaring that long-term Liverpool target Gareth Barry will be staying at the club.

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Reports emerged earlier on Wednesday suggesting that the two clubs were close to agreeing a deal, but the statement – posted on the Villa website – appears to have brought an end to the summer-long transfer saga.

The statement read: “This evening, Aston Villa can announce that Gareth Barry will be staying with the club following the interest from Liverpool over recent months.

“During discussions in the past few days, a final deadline to conclude this episode was set that all parties were aware of and agreed to. This deadline has now passed and so Gareth will remain with Villa.”

Earlier this week, Liverpool coach Rafael Benitez confirmed that Liverpool were still interested in the player, but admitted that he would need to sell players in order to fund a move for the England midfielder.

Tom Williams / Eurosport