Football FanCast columnist Greg Symonds hopes that reports of Arsenal's 11^th hour hijack of Gareth Barry prove correct and feels that a move to North London will be in the player's better interests.

If there is one transfer deal that has become something of an epic in recent weeks; then it is certainly the Gareth Barry one. Such is the callus way that Liverpool chose to approach our captain, has left a real sour taste in the mouth and just highlights the lack of respect and decorum that is prevalent in the modern game.

Martin O'Neill deserves credit for the way he has dragged out the transfer and caused the subsequent frustration for both player and Benitez. Reports suggested in the week that the long running saga was at an end, but I wonder how the Spaniard feels, in light that Arsenal are attempting an 11^th hour move to hijack the move.

I'm sure that I am not the only Villa fan who would take great delight in seeing Gareth Barry move to North London. It would be justice, right for football and proof that bullies don't prevail. In all honesty it proves a better move for the footballer; who will not only get the Champions League football he desires, but will have a much greater chance of securing a Premier League title. Barry has got to ask himself whether he would rather play alongside Cesc Fabregas in the centre or Javier Mascherano, or on the left side would he rather play in front of Gael Clichy or Andrea Dossena - bit of a no brainer in my opinion.

We will wait and wonder and see where our skipper goes, but let's hope it is to the Emirates. I honestly believe that if Barry does move to Arsenal then there will be a few Villa fans, who may accept his move and dare I say applaud his return against us, or has all his bridges been burnt.