As has become clearer with the advent of PSR and SCR considerations in a supporter's experience, there are always multiple factors for Aston Villa to consider. Although it is now known the selling of a regular starter is not needed, it is certainly an option that the club could still potentially explore if the right deal were to present itself.
For someone like Jacob Ramsey, things can become a little more murky. Toward the middle to end of the season, the midfielder found himself out of the rotation, at least in terms of the starting XI, and was moved to a role that asked him to make an impact as a substitute.
That is something that can be difficult for any player. Although it must be added that more often than not, Unai Emery has a knack for making the right moves over the course of an entire season.
Setting that aspect aside, Ramsey is in something of an in-between position. Just because this past campaign did not go as well as he or Villa supporters would have hoped does not mean that he is someone who can be easily cast aside. The talent is clearly there, and when he is able to get in a rhythm, he has proven the ability to play his part at a high level in Emery's system.
It could, of course, be possible that Ramsey is looking for a change in scenery. Other clubs will have seen Ramsey's reduced place at Villa last season and would enjoy the prospect of adding the English player to their side.
Current state for Ramsey at Aston Villa
In the event of an eventual departure, it will have to initiate from Ramsey's desire to enter a new stage of his career away from Villa. Emery has always spoken highly of the player, and the Villa side enjoys having him on the squad.
Last year was more a case of circumstance and speaks to how strong the 'starting 22' approach allowed for multiple high-caliber options to be at Emery's disposal during the campaign.
That does not mean that there is now a need to overreact or undervalue what Ramsey means to Villa. If the midfielder does leave, it will be despite the club's desire for him to stay and continue to be part of what is being developed in B6.