Aston Villa in talks to sign “super” ex-Barcelona player

Aston Villa continue to navigate a key summer transfer window as Unai Emery and the club’s recruitment team work through a number of key priorities ahead of the new season.

One of the biggest talking points surrounding Villa in recent weeks has been the future of Morgan Rogers, which could be key as the Villans look to navigate PSR restrictions and reinvest his potential transfer fee.

The England international has attracted interest from several major clubs following an impressive campaign.

Arsenal have been strongly linked with the attacker and reports have suggested the Gunners are preparing to step up their pursuit.

Chelsea, Man City and Real Madrid have also been mentioned in connection with Rogers as speculation surrounding his future continues.

Villa surely remain aware that any significant departure would require planning in advance, and that has led to links with several potential attacking replacements.

West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen is among the names reported to be admired by figures within Villa’s hierarchy, and recent reports have claimed Emery views Bowen as a player capable of strengthening the squad should an opportunity arise.

Elsewhere, Villa have also continued their search for midfield additions.

Croatia international Martin Baturina remains a player regularly linked with the club, while reports from Italy and Croatia have suggested Villa have maintained interest after seeing an earlier offer rejected.

The midfielder enhanced his reputation further during the World Cup after finding the net against England.

Elsewhere, goalkeeper recruitment has also featured prominently in Villa’s planning.

Emiliano Martinez continues to be linked with a possible departure, prompting speculation over potential replacements, and Real Sociedad goalkeeper Alex Remiro has emerged as one of the names under consideration.

Reports from Spain have suggested Villa are among the clubs most interested in the experienced shot stopper, meanwhile defensive reinforcements have also been discussed throughout the summer thus far.

Lloyd Kelly remains a player linked with a return to the Premier League, and Villa have been mentioned alongside Newcastle United in reports regarding the former Bournemouth defender.

The club’s recruitment team have been active across multiple areas of the squad, but it is now believed they want a right-back too.

Aston Villa in talks to sign Flamengo right-back Emerson Royal

According to Fabrizio Romano, Aston Villa have opened talks to sign Flamengo defender Emerson Royal.

The Brazilian right-back has been identified as a player who could provide competition and cover for Matty Cash.

Romano reports that contact has already been made with Flamengo as Villa explore the possibility of bringing the defender back to English football, and says the discussions are ongoing.

No agreement has yet been reported between the clubs, but ESPN Brasil claim Emery’s side have submitted an £8 million offer.

Emerson is no stranger to European football.

The defender came through the ranks in Brazil, and his performances eventually earned him a move to Barcelona during the early stages of his career.

Although his spell at the Camp Nou was relatively brief, making just three appearances for the Catalans, it did earn him a move to Tottenham, where he spent several seasons in the Premier League.

During his time in north London, Emerson made more than 100 appearances in all competitions, and he became a regular feature of the squad under multiple managers.

Following his departure from Spurs, the defender moved to AC Milan, with Ange Postecoglou praising the ‘super’ defender’s attitude and work rate in training.

His stay in Serie A proved relatively short-lived before he eventually returned to Brazil, and Flamengo subsequently completed a deal to bring him back to South America.

Now, Emerson could make a return to the Premier League under Emery.