Randy Lerner is optimistic Gareth Barry will remain at Aston Villa after discussing a new deal with the midfielder.
Barry was linked with a move away from the club last summer and his future is once again set to be a subject of speculation over the next three months.
The England international's current contract expires at the end of next season and Lerner recognises how important it is for Villa to keep the 28-year-old.
Villa's American owner is hopeful Barry will stay and admits he would also be prepared to wind down his contract rather than look to cash in on a transfer.
"We have discussed a new contract with Gareth. I would give Barry the highest ranking possible. He is the best. He is a gentleman, a great player, a pleasure to be around, a leader, a great captain," said Lerner.
"I don't think anyone could do better than Gareth on any level. Am I optimistic Gareth will stay? Yes, I am optimistic. It is my nature.
"He is currently really speaking to Martin O'Neill and that is the natural process. They will get into it and it will all get handled in the normal ways.
"Am I happy for him to wind down his current contract? That's his decision. If it means he is staying another year, I am absolutely happy.
Lerner insists that it would not be a major gamble to let Barry walk away as a free agent, particularly if he can lead the club to success next season.
He explained: "Even though Villa would lose £10-£12 million? Yes, absolutely. You are talking about a player who is an integral part of your potential success.
"That is in terms of playing more games to winning competitions etc. That is similarly lucrative (to a transfer fee this summer) when you think about what you can achieve with a player like that.
"It is not like you forego the proceeds and you are getting nothing back."
"You are keeping him on the team, the team continues to compete and you are rewarded with successful results. There is more to do it than foregoing money."
Lerner is adamant that other top players such as Gabriel Agbonlahor and Ashley Young would not follow Barry through the Villa Park exit door.
Lerner said: "I don't think given the circumstances that it would send out a bad signal if Gareth left knowing what has happened, how long he has been with the club, and that he has articulated his ambitions at different times.
"If clubs come in for Gabby and Ashley, will we sell them? No. There is no way right now I could imagine that happening."
0 comments:
Post a Comment