King backs maestro to join Aston Villa instead of Barcelona amid £50m+ transfer

Bryan King says Alex Baena would be delighted to join Aston Villa, despite interest from FC Barcelona.

The ex-Villa scout believes Unai Emery’s prior management of the Villarreal star might help bring the 22-year-old to the West Midlands.

It comes after a report in Marca (16 May) revealed that Baena,

who has a £51.4 million release clause,

is a target for both Barcelona and Villa, with the latter believed to be in a stronger financial position to sign him.

Speaking exclusively to Villa News, King claims that the attacking midfield maestro would be delighted to move to the Premier League.

“Barcelona have been leaking money for the past 10 years,” claimed King.

“I believe Baena will be delighted to join Villa and play both Premier League and Champions League football.

“His connection with Emery could also help him to make his decision.”

Can Aston Villa beat FC Barcelona to the signing of Alex Baena?

If Villa supporters had been told five years ago that they would compete with Barcelona for transfer targets,

they would not have believed it.

But that is the predicament Emery has led the club to.

Of course, Barcelona’s financial problems help,

but the fact that Villa is even in the running for a player like Baena is intriguing.

Qualifying for the Champions League will only boost their position in the transfer market,

resulting in an interesting summer ahead.

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