'Barcelona Leading The Chase' - Premier League Club Now Willing To Sell £20M Liverpool And Barca Target

Aston Villa are open to selling highly-rated Liverpool target Carney Chukwuemeka, according to Fabrizio Romano, and Barcelona are leading the chase for his signature.

The 18-year-old midfielder came through the Villa academy, but is looking to move elsewhere for more first-team action.

He played just 11 league games under Steven Gerrard last season, and was expected to feature a lot more under the former Rangers boss.

Villa are thought to want £20m for Chukwuemeka, who has captained England at Under-19s level, and was part of UEFA's Team of the Tournament at the recent European Under-19 Championships in Slovakia.

PSG, Borussia Dortmund, Barcelona and Newcastle United are all said to be interested, with Liverpool also monitoring the situation.

A move to BVB could be the most logical, however, as the youngster has been ‘inspired’ by the rapid progression of Jude Bellingham.

"Me and Jude have known each other for a few years. What he is doing now is inspiring me in a big way to do more.” he told Soccerbible.

"I’m particularly driven by him. I’ve felt how he can drive me and motivate me. I’d love to get into that position so that I can help show the next player what can be done.

"That’s my goal really; I want to bring all the success I can home to England, to my family and to all who have helped me on my journey so far."

Anfield as a destination is as tempting as any though, with Jurgen Klopp always keen to give opportunities to young players.

He’s overseen the development of Trent Alexander-Arnold, with Curtis Jones, Harvey Elliott and Tyler Morton also given regular opportunities.

They also offer a chance to improve and move elsewhere, with the likes of Neco Williams, Dominic Solanke and Jordon Ibe earning big moves from the German’s tuition.

However, the likelihood of first-team action with the Reds at the current moment seems unlikely - so a move to Europe would be the best fit, going from the Bellingham model.

Chukwuemeka has a year left on his Villa deal, and despite the fact they’re open to letting him go, they will hope he has a u-turn and signs the dotted line in the Midlands.