Championship side Millwall are the latest second-tier side that are keen on a loan deal for a current Premier League winger, ahead of the second half of the 2024/25 campaign.
According to the South London Press, the Lions are one of many Championship clubs eyeing up a move for Aston Villa winger Louie Barry following his return from League One side Stockport County.
However, Millwall will face tough competition to secure the youngster’s signature in the January window.
A host of clubs race for one signature.
Following the playmaker’s return to Villa Park, a series of Championship clubs including Sunderland and Leeds United have been linked with signing him.
A report from fellow journalist Fraser Fletcher has also highlighted Middlesbrough and Coventry City have also set their sights on bringing in Barry to their respective side.
He has been impossible to play against during a loan spell with Stockport County at the start of the 2024/25 campaign, even despite minor injuries.
The former Barcelona academy player has scored 15 times in 23 appearances for Dave Challinor’s side, which almost certainly explains Aston Villa’s decision to recall him and test him at a higher level.
Is a winger a priority position for Millwall?
New Millwall Head Coach Alex Neil and Director of Football Steve Gallen could be looking to get a deal done in the January window for a new winger.
With a fresh injury to Aidomo Emakhu that will keep him out until March and the mounting speculation over the interest in Romain Esse, who is said to have plenty of Premier League clubs after him.
One of the world’s top journalists, Fabrizio Romano, is reporting that Crystal Palace has made an official approach to sign Esse but also says, “It is a difficult deal to get done in January.”
These gaps could create a need for Millwall to target at least one replacement this month and Barry fits that criteria but will face major competition.
Is this a good signing?
Louie Barry would be a superb addition to the Lions squad and any Championship squad for that matter, even if it was just on loan.
If the 21-year-old can transition his excellent League One form into the Championship and consistently perform to that level, as expected by parent club Aston Villa, then that will set him up to have a great opportunity to showcase his talent with Villa in the Premier League and associated competitions next season.
His goals and assists could prove vital to helping Millwall finish in the top half of the Championship this season, but a deal is likely to be far from straightforward.
