Not that we could afford it, as you say Gaz, but If Villa have any sense, would they just cancel his contract? ... surely there would be other clubs who would love to secure his services and could stump up a few bob to sweeten the vile. Joe might actually love our set up, but his isn't master of his own playing career, unfortunately.
If Villa want him off the wage bill he might be master of his own career as he can push them to make a move that suits him or he'll sit out his contract.