Tammy Abraham has been told he is 'free to leave' amid links with a return move to Aston Villa in a deal worth £40 million, report the Mirror.

The 23-year-old striker is reportedly keen on a return to Villa Park having failed to secure himself a regular role in Thomas Tuchel’s plans.

Abraham has played just 230 minutes under the Chelsea manager since his arrival in January 2021, with both parties now expecting an imminent bid.

The striker’s future at Stamford Bridge was made clear after Tuchel omitted the striker from the UEFA Champions League and FA Cup final squads. 

It is reported that Dean Smith is keen to strike a deal with Chelsea for Abraham as quickly as possible to ensure his newly oiled arsenal are firing on all cylinders ahead of the 2021/22 Premier League season.

The arrival of Abraham would follow the £35 million signing of Emi Buendia from Norwich City. 

Second Homecoming

Abraham spent the 2018/19 season on loan at Villa, firing Smith’s side into the Premier League, scoring 25 goals in 37 EFL Championship games.

The then Villa number nine scored a crucial goal versus West Bromwich Albion in the first leg of the play-offs, sealing a 2-1 win.

As Abraham’s stardom continued to rise amongst Villa fans, he then scored the winning penalty to send Smith's side to Wembley.

Villa went on to win the play-off final under the illustrious arches, as they treasured what was a remarkable season for Chelsea’s Abraham.

Old friends, old ways

When Abraham first joined Villa in 2018, he spoke to the club website revealing how John Terry and Jack Grealish played pivotal roles in his arrival.

Abraham said: “John Terry was one of the first people to call me. He said it was a great club and he enjoyed every minute. 

“He said I’d like the manager and I’d like the players."

The Chelsea striker continued, as he hailed Grealish for warmly welcoming him to Villa Park.

“You’ve got players like Jack Grealish, who have been messaging me every day,” said Abraham in 2018. 

“It’s nice to have that person from before that you know.”

Chelsea’s five-time Premier League winner and Villa’s number ten could have already paved Abraham’s departure from West London, as a reunion looks set to be on the cards.