Luton Town’s valiant attempt to remain in the Premier League garnered plenty of plaudits, but the Hatters ultimately fell short in their quest. Now, the North London outfit is at the mercy of top-flight clubs who could come calling for a number of their top stars. While Rob Edwards is preparing for life back in the second tier, he may also be gearing up for a future without three of his best players.
Oddschecker has made Luton the 12/1 third favourites for the title next year, behind Leeds United and Burnley. The popular odds comparison site compares the best odds and promotions and many offers are available here, such as Bet365’s bet £10 get £30. It remains to be seen, however, whether the Kenilworth Road club can live up to their lofty billing.
If they are, they will probably have to do it without the following three sensations, players that took the top flight by storm last season.
Ross Barkley
Ross Barkley’s presence at Luton Town has been nothing short of sensational. Many thought that the former Everton man’s career was finished at the top level after a disappointing stint with Chelsea and then with French side Nice. However, he has stunningly resurrected his career at Kenilworth Road.
The former Sheffield Wednesday loanee joined Luton to reinvigorate his career, bringing a wealth of Premier League experience to the Hatters. He did exactly that as he racked up five goals and a further four assists for the recently relegated club. Naturally, his performances haven’t gone unnoticed. There are rumours that Barkley could be on his way to Aston Villa, as Unai Emery attempts to strengthen his side ready for UEFA Champions League football next term.
The 30-year-old midfielder was on loan at Villa Park back in the 2020/21 campaign. He didn’t perform as expected and the Villans narrowly avoided the drop. The club has come on leaps and bounds in the years since, and so has Barkley. His technical ability and vision have been pivotal in Luton’s midfield. In a team alongside the likes of Ollie Watkins and Moussa Diaby, he may very well take his game to another level.
But, as with many Championship clubs, Luton may struggle to retain an attacking playmaker of Barkley’s calibre, especially if a substantial bid comes in from a Premier League side. Villa are reportedly looking to bolster their midfield options ahead of their return to the most elite dining table in European football, and Barkley’s familiarity with the club makes him an attractive proposition. A move back to Villa Park could provide Barkley with another chance to prove himself in the top flight, while Luton would need to find an adequate replacement to fill the void left by the Englishman.
Alfie Doughty
Alfie Doughty has been one of Luton’s standout performers this season. The versatile left-sided player, who can operate both as a winger and a full-back, has attracted interest from several clubs, including Brentford. Known for his blistering pace and crossing ability, the 24-year-old has been a constant threat down the flanks and looks like he has a promising future ahead of him.
The Bees have established themselves as a solid mid-table Premier League team in recent years and are looking to add depth to their squad to solidify their status and perhaps push on to the next level. Doughty fits the bill of a young, dynamic player who could thrive under Thomas Frank. His ability to deliver precise crosses into the likes of Ivan Toney would surely result in a bucket loads of assists, while his defensive work rate makes him an ideal candidate to compete for a spot in Brentford’s lineup.
Elijah Adebayo
Another Luton Town player who could be packing his bags this summer is Elijah Adebayo. The powerful striker has been instrumental in Luton’s rise, joining the club in the January transfer window in 2021 and helping them secure promotion to the Premier League in his first full season with the club. He shone in his maiden campaign in the top flight, netting ten goals in just 27 games. Now, established outfits are sniffing around.
Adebayo’s performances have caught the eye of Crystal Palace, who are in the market for a forward to compliment French hitman Jean-Philippe Mateta. The throwback striker announced himself to the Premier League following the arrival of Oliver Glasner, bagging himself 16 goals last term. Adebayo would provide competition for places with the talented Frenchman and could even find himself thrust into the limelight should the former Manz man leave Selhurst Park.
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