Exclusive: Don Goodman raises "alarm bell" for Sheffield United as Blades eye Aston Villa deal | OneFootball

Sky Sports pundit Don Goodman has reacted to Sheffield United's potential move for Aston Villa's Louie Barry.

Sheffield United could swoop for Aston Villa winger Louie Barry after Hull City were forced to pull out of a £3.5 million permanent deal.

As the Blades rebuild under new boss Ruben Selles, Barry has emerged as a possible wide option, but questions remain over whether the 22-year-old is ready for the step-up to the Championship.

Transfer embargo halts Hull deal - Blades ready to pounce

After starring for Stockport County in League One last season, Barry was recalled by Aston Villa and sent on loan to Hull City to test himself at a higher level.

However, injury struck again. Barry made just four appearances for the Tigers before a hamstring issue ended his season early.

Despite the setback, Hull were still preparing to sign Barry permanently for £3.5 million, until a transfer embargo abruptly shut down the move.

Now, Sheffield United, managed by Barry's former Hull boss Ruben Selles, are being urged to make their own approach, with TEAMtalk reporting that the Blades are considering a summer move.

Goodman: Barry deal would be a gamble - but not without potential

Speaking exclusively to Football League World, Sky Sports pundit Don Goodman was asked whether Barry would be a good wide option for the Blades as they rebuild under Selles.

He warned that Sheffield United would be taking a risk: "The Louie Barry scenario is very interesting," he said. "Ruben Selles took him to Hull City, but he was only able to start two games due to injuries, obviously, but it was still very disappointing."

"Louie Barry is still yet to prove that he can operate at Championship level, so that would be a little bit of an alarm bell."

While Barry was "arguably the best player in League One" during his time at Stockport, Goodman emphasised that there's a world of difference between third-tier brilliance and second-tier consistency.

"It would all very much depend on what it would cost Sheffield United," Goodman added. "Whether it be on loan or permanent, they need to find a bargain."

"If it is a gamble they want to take, they have to be sure it's the right one."

Blades boss Selles knows the player, but fitness could be a concern

There is no doubt that Barry has a high ceiling, from his move to Barcelona's famed La Masia to his stardom in the English youth system. The winger has long been tipped for the top.

However, recurring injury problems have slowed that trajectory. For Sheffield United, the question isn't just whether Barry has the ability, but whether he can stay fit long enough to show it.

With Hull City now out of the race, the path is clear for a move elsewhere in the Championship. But whether that's via a cut-price permanent deal or a lower-risk loan remains to be seen.