Unai Emery’s team defied expectations by finishing fourth in the Premier League last season, securing qualification for the Champions League for the first time in Aston Villa’s history.
Participating in this prestigious European tournament is expected to enhance Aston Villa’s appeal to top football talents this summer, a prospect the club is keen to leverage.
Aston Villa has already begun making moves in the transfer market, reportedly reaching an agreement with Chelsea for Ian Maatsen, as revealed by HITC. Mikel Merino, formerly linked with a move to Villa Park and now playing for Real Sociedad in Spain after his time at Newcastle United, has drawn attention. According to The Sun, Merino’s contract includes a £52 million release clause. Despite struggling to make a significant impact during his stint in the Premier League with Newcastle, the 28-year-old has regained his form in Spain and earned a call-up to their Euro 2024 squad.
Unai Emery rubbishes Mikel Merino to Aston Villa
Before Aston Villa supporters get hopeful about the prospect of signing Merino to bolster their midfield, Emery has refuted the speculation. In an interview with Spanish outlet El Diario Vasco, Emery stated, “It’s all untrue. There has been no interest in signing Mikel Merino during my tenure at Aston Villa. Real Sociedad has excellent players, and there could be some interesting options for Aston Villa, but we haven’t pursued any player. Regarding Merino specifically, there’s nothing there.”
While a deal for Merino seems out of reach, Villa’s recruitment team is actively pursuing alternatives to strengthen the squad for Emery’s Champions League ambitions.
Reports suggest Villa have initiated discussions with Fiorentina’s £25 million-rated prospect Michael Kayode as they seek reinforcements at right-back.
Despite Emery and Villa’s desire to retain last season’s squad, the club faces pressure to adhere to the Premier League’s financial regulations, necessitating potential player sales.
