Leeds United won't be resting on their laurels despite being top of the Championship with Daniel Farke's side pushing for promotion back to the Premier League. The league leaders have already been linked with a number of players despite the window having opened just a few days ago.

One player that the Whites and other Championship clubs have been linked with is Aston Villa's Louie Barry. The youngster has just returned to Villa Park after a successful loan spell at League One side Stockport County.

Barry scored 16 goals in 24 appearances lighting up League One, playing mainly on the left-hand side of attack. He looks to be on the move again as a number of the clubs fight it out for the 21-year-old's signature.

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LeedsLive round-up all news surrounding the Leeds linked player:

Aston Villa's plans for Barry

Aston Villa plan on loaning Barry straight back out as they look to test him at a higher level. The Championship seems like the destination for the attacker.

Barry has only ever had loan spells in League One and League Two with Ipswich Town, MK Dons, Swindon Town, Salford City and most recently Stockport. It would be a new test for the highly coveted youngster, but one that he seems to be ready for after his great record in the third tier.

Reports had mentioned that Villa could be looking to sell the forward. However, The Telegraph have reported that Unai Emery is prepared to loan out to the Championship for the second half of the season.

Championship interest

As previously mentioned, Leeds United are not the only Championship clubs that have taken an interest in Barry. Promotion rivals Sheffield United and Sunderland are in the race.

Middlesbrough and Derby County have also been mentioned as possible destinations for the former Barcelona man. With a lot of competition for Barry, it could take a while to find a resolution to this transfer saga.

Louie Barry's Sunderland hint

The forward took to Instagram to thank Stockport County after the completion of his loan spell. He also may have given a hint to where his future lies in the comments.

"I've loved every second playing for County and going into training with an amazing group of lads," Barry said. "I will always hold Stockport County close to my heart. Thank you to the gaffa, the staff, all the players and most importantly the fans.

"I know I was only here on loan but you made me feel like I was one of your own which was a special feeling. Hopefully this isn't the last time we cross paths, but I will be a fan for life now. Thank you again."

In one of the comments under the post, user @mike_in_stockport, wrote: "Brilliant Louie, now hopefully you'll sign for Sunderland and do the same up there." Interestingly, Barry liked the comment in a move that could signal his intent to move to the Stadium of Light.