Aston Villa are looking to make another addition to their squad, following a busy schedule in the transfer market last year. This time, it is head coach Unai Emery who is making the push.
Fichajes.net reports that the Villans have set sights on Villarreal midfielder Alex Baena, who worked with Unai Emery during his time at the club.
Although Aston Villa could be keen on his services, there seems to be an obstacle. The Spaniard signed a contract with Villarreal with a 60 million euro release clause.
Baena, who is only 22 years old, is currently one of the key players at the club.
He was promoted to the senior team after his exploits in the academy. He was on loan at Girona between 2021 and 2022. However, he has since returned to the Yellow Submarines for the 2023/2024 season.
According to statistics, Alex Baena has made 79 appearances, scoring 16 goals and providing 15 assists for the club. This season, he has made ten appearances, registering a goal.
A priority signing for Unai Emery in the January transfer window
In the camp to the player, there’s a possibility he could depart the club even as Villarreal’s financial difficulties create room for it.
That said, a tempting offer from Aston Villa could force Villarreal to consider selling the attacking midfielder in January
But this is not ideal as the club could also opt to wait until his value in the transfer market increases beyond his current valuation.
In conclusion, the future of the Spaniard in the transfer market is unclear, and anything could change, especially in the January transfer window.