Aston Villa are currently in the first round of summer contract negotiations and are keen to sign FC Barcelona star Alejandro Balde.
Emery can’t settle for Digne or Masen
Former Villa scout Mick Brown revealed Villa’s plans to bring in a new left-back just over two months ago, saying:I expect Villa to be looking for a replacement for Digne. They are said to have not been particularly happy with his play of late, and if they can identify a player to replace him, they would be willing to do so. ”
The Frenchman has been in and out of the squad since then, coming on the bench in the 4-1 home defeat to Chelsea and coming on as a late substitute in the 4-3 win over Sunderland last time out.
Digne provided the assist for Tammy Abraham’s dramatic stoppage-time winner, but it remains to be seen whether Ian Maassen’s assist for Ollie Watkins’ second goal is enough to win him back into the starting XI.
In any case, with Unai Emery unable to settle at first-choice left-back, an upgrade in that area may be needed during the summer transfer window, but new updates have been announced regarding Aston Villa’s signing of Barcelona star Balde.
Reports from Spain (via Sports Witness) claim that Villa are in initial talks to sign the left-back and are prepared to make a €50 million bid to ensure they win the race for his signature ahead of Premier League rivals Manchester United and Manchester City.
It remains to be seen whether La Liga leaders will approve the move, given that the 22-year-old has been an important player this season, making 36 appearances in all competitions and breaking into the Spanish squad.
Shortly after making his breakthrough at the top level, the Spaniard even received praise from former manager Xavi.“He has great quality and personality. I’m always amazed that he can play at that level at 18 years old.”
“He is physically great and will give us a lot. We have three left-backs of an exceptional level, including Jordi and Marcos (Alonso).”
Villa eye on Balde transfer ahead of Champions League
Balde is used to playing in the Champions League for Barça, having made 30 appearances in the competition, suggesting qualification could be key to luring Emery to Villa Park.
Aston Villa plan to sign Ligue 1-tending London-born forward for £44m
The Villains entered into a “great” recruiting race.
Fortunately, the Villans are well-placed to do just that, with an eight-point lead over sixth-placed Brighton with a game in hand, and also a place in the Europa League semi-finals.
If Aston Villa progress to Europe, it will end a 30-year wait for a major trophy, dating back to the 1996 League Cup final won under manager Brian Little.
