Aston Villa midfielder of Nigerian descent sparks transfer battle between Barca & AC Milan

AC Milan are the latest European powerhouse linked with a move for Aston Villa's Nigeria-eligible midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka.

According to The Athletic UK (subscription required), the England U19 international is drawing interest from Barcelona and AC Milan.

The 18-year-old has less than one year left on his contract and Aston Villa are keen to tie him down to a new long term deal but have been successful - a situation that could see him leave for next to nothing next June.

Aston Villa reportedly value the Anglo-Nigerian at 20 million pounds but Barcelona and AC Milan are not ready to pay the fee being demanded knowing full well that he would cost 400,000 pounds in compensation if he runs down his contract.

Barcelona and AC Milan are hoping to agree personal terms with Chukwuemeka but face competition from clubs in England, Germany and Italy for his signature.

The hugely talented midfielder was one of the revelations at the recently concluded European U19 Championship, scoring three goals and setting up two others to help the Young Lions win the tournament.

Manager Steven Gerrard omitted Chukwuemeka from Aston Villa's pre-season tour to Australia amid uncertainty surrounding his future.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : avfc.co.uk

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