Alex Baena has been repeatedly presented as an Aston Villa transfer target this year with both the Spanish media, who appear to have been first, and UK media getting in on the act.
In April of this year there were multiple reports from Spain which stated Aston Villa were keen on the Villarreal player ahead of the summer window. It was even claimed Unai Emery’s side were prepared to match Baena’s €60m release clause as they looked to get a transfer over the line.
October saw the Spanish media bring Aston Villa interest more up to date, and they were presented as a serious problem in the way of Barcelona also being keen. Rather than the €60m clause, €40m was said to be the likely price.
Since then there’s been multiple claims in the UK.
Last season, the 23-year-old left-winger – who is very versatile when it comes to position – scored five goals and added 18 assists over 45 matches.
This season he’s got three goals and five assists across 15 games so far.
Baena has now spoken to the Spanish media and been very clear about what he wants from a transfer.
Marca quote the youngster as saying: “I try not to look too much at what is said, although I am getting some (interest). What I am focused on is finishing the season at Villarreal and staying here, because that is where I am happiest. I am thinking about what I have to do now.
“I have always said that to leave Villarreal it has to be a better team. And for me that has to be a top 10 team in the world. Villarreal is the club of my life and if one day that offer comes we will sit down and talk and see what is best for both of us.”
Would that bracket include Aston Villa? Well, they’re third in the Champions League table, which would surely count for something.
Perhaps more important would be qualifying for the competition next season.
