Aston Villa have been linked to an abundance of talent this summer however, Unai Emery now looks likely to miss out on one target.
The summer transfer window has been eventful for Aston Villa, who have seen key players depart and new faces arrive ahead of the 2024/25 calendar.
Unai Emery and Monchi aren’t done yet with their plan to modify the squad ready for the Champions League, as further transfer moves are poised to take place before deadline day.
The pending departure of Moussa Diaby is the focal point at Bodymoor Heath and Emery will be disappointed to learn that he may now struggle to secure his dream replacement.
Aston Villa transfer target Nico Williams edges closer to Barcelona move
Villa signed Diaby from Bayer Leverkusen last summer and one year down the line, the Frenchman looks set to exit.
Amid talk of the 25-year-old’s departure, it’s come to light that Emery wanted to sign Nico Williams instead of Diaby, who is a player being frequently spoken about this summer.
Williams has been linked to Villa, as well as a range of other clubs, who were impressed by his Euro 2024 displays however, it seems as though one side is closing in.
On Monday, Fabrizio Romano reported that Barcelona are ‘only focused’ on signing the 22-year-old, adding that the Catalan club have a ‘clear plan’ to progress with a deal for the player.
Romano stated that Barcelona are already in contact with Williams’ entourage over a possible transfer, with talks to be held this week in a bid to get a ‘green light’ on personal terms.
It’s a blow for Aston Villa, who would have been hopeful to sign the Athletic Bilbao sensation this summer, with his future now looking likely to remain in Spain.
Nothing is closed on Williams’ future, but time is running out
With Diaby set to leave, Emery will be desperate to swiftly locate a replacement for the winger, who contributed to 19 goals in his first season in England.
In Williams, the Spaniard could solve any woes regarding Diaby’s exit, as the forward showed his potential at the Euros, where he stood out in attack for the eventual winners of the tournament.
While Barcelona have a clear plot to secure the dazzling star’s signature this summer, nothing is closed as far as Villa’s interest is concerned, with Monchi still able to approach the player if the Premier League side are all in for his services.
Williams’ next steps will be a fascinating path to follow, despite Barcelona looking like the most active club in the transfer saga.
