Premier League clubs are hoping to be able to add to their 25-man squads from the second half of the season if the campaign resumes.
The Telegraph reports the change is on the cards, which would provide a significant boost to a number of clubs - with Newcastle potentially being able to call upon Paul Dummett should he be fit.
However, Chelsea would not be able to play new signing Hakim Ziyech, nor would Arsenal be able to use William Saliba after his loan spell with St. Etienne, in the proposal which could go to an official vote.
With clubs facing the threat of losing out of contract players or on-loan players at the end of June, it’s stated the Premier League have discussed a rule change which would allow 25-man squads to be added to with players already at the club.
That could even give the likes of Jack Colback a lifeline at Newcastle.
The rule change could still go to a vote and be subject to amendments but could provide a significant boost for a number of clubs, particularly with players who had previously been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to injury.
Some clubs believe that space would have to be made to accommodate any squad additions and that they should only be implemented from June 30 onwards, when player contracts are due to expire.
It remains to be seen whether or not, should the season restart before June 30 as currently proposed, Villa and other Premier League clubs would have to wait until the end of next month to make any changes.
Any player who did not see their loan spells outside of the club extended beyond June 30 would not be able to feature for the team they’re returning to, including the likes of Dean Henderson, on loan at Sheffield United from Manchester United.
Limiting clubs to only adding players who were already at the club when the season was suspended would stop the possibility of players, such as Willian, becoming free agents on June 30 and then moving to and playing for another Premier League club this season.
