Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has confirmed that Cameron Archer is likely to leave the club, with Sheffield United reportedly having a bid accepted.
21-year old Archer has been subject to plenty of interest to clubs in the Premier League and Championship this summer.
With the form of Ollie Watkins and Jhon Duran getting minutes off the bench ahead of the Englishman, he looks set to leave.
There are reports that the Villains have accepted an £18 million bid from the Blades for Archer, with the striker set for a medical.
In half a season on loan at Middlesbrough last season, he scored 11 and assisted six across just 23 games.
It is also reported that a buy back clause is included in the deal which benefits Emery’s side for the future.
With the sale of Aaron Ramsey going through, Jaden Philogene-Bidace and Keinan Davis set to join Hull City and now Archer leaving, Villa are cashing in on their young talent.
The sales of these four would represent nearly £40 million worth of profit, which with FFP regulations, could be the difference between more spending and cutting back.
Following the 5-0 dismantling on Hibernian, Villa boss, Emery discussed the future of Archer.
What has Unai Emery said about Cameron Archer?
Instantly it appears that selling Archer was not the original plan but with circumstances changing, and the striker wanting minutes it has happened.
“I spoke with Cameron Archer at the beginning of pre-season, and like every player, he needs to play and to progress.”
Emery understands why Archer might prefer a move away from the club. With the striker getting plenty of pre season minutes, it may point towards the Spaniard wanting to keep him.
“Now he has the opportunity to leave, I don’t know if it’s 100 per cent official, but if he leaves it is good for him.”
It is a breath of fresh air to see the manager not holding on to a player who wants to explore other avenues.
Emery was understanding of the benefits his sale would have on the club as well however: “It is good for the club because we can take money from the transfer.”
He didn’t confirm the prospect of a buy back clause but he did say: “we are trying to get under control of the possibilities because we believe in him and I think we are close in the deal with those circumstances like we want.”
This does point towards an option down the line where Villa could resign Archer if he succeeds with the Blades.
A deal that appears to benefit all parties, Villa fans aren’t thrilled with a top prospect leaving the club, but for £18 million it is hard to turn down.
If all goes well he will be resigned and be Villa’s number nine in years to come.
