Bjarnason eyeing return to Italy – agent

BIRKIR Bjarnason is open to a move away from Villa and would welcome a return to Italy, according to the player’s agent.

Bjarnason, 29, has made just seven league starts since his £2.5 million move from Basel 12 months ago and has been limited to 26 minutes of senior football since September.

The Icelandic midfielder has previously enjoyed spells with Sampdoria and Pescara in Italy and his representative, Jim Solbakken, has been approached by Serie A clubs who hope to sign him.

He said: “Birkir would like to return to Serie A.

“He was very good in Italy and would like to play again in the Italian league.

“But he is totally focused on Aston Villa. The club is fighting to get back in the Premier (League), his only thought is to do well with his club’s shirt. “We’ll see what happens.” Despite scoring his first Championship goal against Bristol City on New Year’s Day, Bjarnason is behind top scorer Albert Adomah and rookie Andre Green in Steve Bruce’s left-wing pecking order.

The manager is willing to let some of his fringe players leave this transfer window and could be persuaded to part with Bjarnason if the price is right.

The international also has his World Cup dream to think about.

He helped Iceland reach football’s biggest tournament for the first time and desperately wants to play his part.