Why Birmingham City signing Aston Villa star Louie Barry makes sense - there are 3 clear reasons | OneFootball

Birmingham City signing Louie Barry from Aston Villa would be controversial, but we outline why it would make sense for all parties.

Birmingham City are monitoring Aston Villa’s Louie Barry as they look to strengthen their squad following promotion back to the Championship.

After a remarkable investment under their ambitious US owners last season, it came as no surprise that Blues stormed to the League One title, playing some fantastic football along the way.

Now, Chris Davies’ side will be aiming to go again, with an exciting summer window in store for all connected to Blues.

Birmingham eyeing up transfer swoop for Louie Barry

It has been claimed that Barry is a target, with Birmingham’s bitter rivals Aston Villa ready to sanction a loan move for the attacker.

The 21-year-old starred in League One with Stockport in the first half of last season before joining Hull City in January, but his time with the Tigers was heavily disrupted by injury as he made just four appearances.

So, a return to the second tier is seen as the best step for his development by Villa, and Blues are seemingly in the mix for his signature.

Making the move across the Second City would put an intense spotlight on Barry, but here we outline THREE reasons why it’s a move that could make sense for all parties…

Barry is an upgrade on what Birmingham have right now

Firstly, it’s easy to see why Blues want to bring Barry in, as he would be an upgrade on what they have right now.

Whether it’s from the left-flank in Davies’ 4-2-3-1 formation, or in a more central role, the Blues boss would find a place for Barry in his XI, and the prospect of the attacker linking up with Jay Stansfield is one that would excite fans.

At his best, Barry is a constant threat with his pace and direct style, whilst he is cool and calm in front of goal.

Even though most of the Birmingham side should be able to handle the step-up to the Championship, you could argue they are one or two forward players short, so Barry would address that.

He needs first-team football

Following on from that, it would make sense for all parties because Barry will play regular football.

The former West Brom and Barcelona youngster endured some tough luck at Hull with that injury, and he will be hoping to find a club where he can play regularly to show what he can do.

Realistically, that’s not going to happen at Villa, so the Championship is the right move, and, as outlined above, he is an upgrade on what Birmingham have.

So, it suits the player and Blues, whilst if it’s a loan, Villa will benefit from Barry playing week in, week out, which should happen at St Andrew’s.

Chris Davies’ style of play will suit Louie Barry

Another factor that Villa will consider before deciding where to send Barry is how he will fit in, and Davies could be the ideal manager for the youngster at this stage of his career.

Anyone who saw Blues play last season will recognise that they are a stylish team who play attractive football.

If it’s a loan, Villa would want Barry to be at a club that plays progressive football, as opposed to going route one which won’t get the most out of the forward.

There may be some reluctance at Villa Park to help out Birmingham, but the reality is that if it’s the right destination for the player to improve, then it’s worth it for the club.