Alex Baena happy to join Aston Villa despite Barcelona interest amid £50m+ transfer news
Bryan King believes Alex Baena would be more than happy to join Aston Villa despite interest from FC Barcelona.
The ex-Villa scout claims that Unai Emery’s time managing the Villarreal star previously could help lure the 22-year-old to the West Midlands.
It comes after a report in Marca (16 May) revealed that Baena, who has a release clause of £51.4million, is a target for both Barcelona and Villa, although the latter are thought to be in a better financial position to sign the player.
And King – speaking exclusively to Villa News – claims that the attacking midfield maestro would be more than happy to make the switch to the Premier League.
“Barcelona have been leaking money for the past 10 years,” King said.
“I think Baena will be very pleased to join Villa and play Premier League football as well as Champions League football.
“His connection with Emery could also help him to make his decision.”
Could Aston Villa beat FC Barcelona to the signing of Alex Baena?
If Villa supporters had been told five years ago that they would be competing with the likes of Barcelona for transfer targets, they wouldn’t have dared believe it.
But that is the position Emery has brought the club to.
Of course, Barca’s financial troubles provide a helping hand, but even for Villa to be in the conversation for a player like Baena is exciting.
Qualifying for the Champions League will only help strengthen their position in the transfer market, and it could therefore be an exciting summer ahead.
In other Aston Villa news, the club are to make a transfer decision on one loanee at the club.
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