Aston Villa prepared to spend big on La Liga playmaker linked to Barcelona and Atletico Madrid | OneFootball

Villarreal playmaker Alex Baena has very much played his way into the consciousness of Europe’s giants, and perhaps even the Spain squad for the Euros this summer. It seems the most serious candidates for his signature are Aston Villa though.

Atletico Madrid and Barcelona are believed to be admirers of Baena, but neither are looking at the 22-year-old as a priority for next season. Football España has been informed that Baena could be available for as little as €30-40m this summer, despite his release clause being set at €60m.

Unai Emery was the first manager who trusted him at Villarreal, and as per Marca, he is very keen on being reunited with the 22-year-old. Villa, with money to burn following their Champions League qualification, are prepared to spend big on Baena.

A move for Baena seems a no-brainer for any club with the means. Still very much growing, Baena has the versatility to play almost anywhere ahead of the defence, and the ability to carve defences open. This season he is La Liga’s leading assist-provider with 13, and has 16 overall for the season. He also possesses a vicious strike, and has five goals for the season too.