Speaking to the Birmingham Mail, Steve Bruce has conceded that he may have to sell some more high-profile players this summer, as he looks to balance Aston Villa’s books.

It has been well documented this summer that Villa are fighting against Financial Fair Play punishments, which is limiting the club’s spending power in the transfer window.

Bruce has allowed a number of fringe players to leave Villa Park this summer, but surprisingly let Nathan Baker leave last week, despite the defender featuring regularly in the Sky Bet Championship last season.

Baker’s sale came as a shock to many, but Bruce has conceded he may have to sacrifice others between now and the end of the summer, he said: “I might have to sell somebody I don’t want to sell because the squad is still top heavy.

“I don’t think that will be the case because nobody wants to sell their best players.

“But Nathan Baker came out of the blue. We let him go because it chips away at the FFP and makes a little dent that we need.”

Despite Villa’s budget this summer, there has been some exciting arrivals at Villa Park ahead of the new season.

John Terry and Chris Samba have both arrived on free transfers, adding plenty of experience to Villa’s defence, whilst Sam Johnstone has returned on a season-long loan from Manchester United and is expected to be Bruce’s number one.

Bruce has also signed Glenn Whelan and Ahmed Elmohamady, and all five of his summer signings could make their competitive debut on Saturday evening, when Villa welcome Hull City to Villa Park.

One player reportedly close to leaving Villa Park is Ross McCormack, who looks set to join Sunderland on a season-long loan.

The Verdict

Steve Bruce’s comments will worry Aston Villa’s supporters, as he is making rival clubs aware that they may have to sell if a substantial offer comes their way.

Baker’s departure was a surprise and fans were disappointed with Villa’s decision. However, they can cope without the 26-year-old due to the cover they have already signed.

One player Villa simply cannot afford to lose is Jonathan Kodjia, with the striker, who is currently out injured, absolutely vital to their chance of promotion.

Aston Villa fans… Let us know your thoughts!