Liverpool and Arsenal have today missed out on Aston Villa captain Gareth Barry after the player's agent admitted he will not be leaving the club this summer. The England international has been linked with a £18 million move to both Anfield and the Emirates but Villa boss Martin O'Neill would appear to have held onto his man.Barry, 27, admitted at the start of the summer that given the opportunity, he would love to join Liverpool, comments which led to his demotion from the Villa first team. He has since been reinstated to the Villa full team and has appeared in his sides two Premier League fixtures to date.
In a statement released to Sky Sports News, Barry's agent Alex Black said: "After much speculation I can confirm that Gareth Barry will not leave Aston Villa before the transfer window closes. Gareth made the decision to stay two weeks ago and informed Aston Villa of his intentions."
"During this time discussions have taken place to decide the best way forward for all parties. Any talks regarding potential new contracts at Aston Villa will not take place until the end of the season. Gareth wants to concentrate on playing on the best of his ability for Aston Villa, and we hope this draws a line under the matter."
Although this would appear to be good news for Villa fans, I personally can see Barry leave the club during the January transfer, although I was one who thought he would leave this summer. He is a vital part of the way Villa work and losing him would be a big blow for the side, but at least they will have him until next year.