Aston Villa’s Enzo Barrenechea has been on loan Valencia since last summer and starred at Mestalla.
At the start of this month, the midfielder stated he would like to continue in Spain beyond this season.
On Tuesday, the Aston Villa owned player started in Los Ches’ 1-1 draw against Espanyol and spoke to the local media after the tie. Super Deporte have relayed his comments and also provided their own updates.
Valencia haven’t secured a purchase clause with the Villans, meaning the 23-year-old has to return to Villa Park after this season. At this moment in time, the Argentine isn’t clear as to where his future lies next season.
“Regarding contacts [about the future], I have none,” he told Onda Cero Valencia.
“My mind is 100% focused on Valencia until the end of the season. Then I know I have to return to Aston Villa in July, no matter what happens. I’m really enjoying being here.
“I’m very grateful to the fans for the affection they show me every day. I’m very happy; my transfer belongs to Villa, and I try to enjoy every day here… Football is like that; you never know what might happen, so I try to enjoy it to the fullest.”
Super give their own take on the Spanish club’s chances of retaining the Aston Villa man. They have been well aware Unai Emery’s side will need €9-10m to sanction his sale in the upcoming window.
They state there’s been no significant contacts between Valencia and Barrenechea’s agent or between the two clubs so far.
It’s too early to understand where Barrenechea will play next season. Aston Villa have also postponed their squad planning for next season as they are in the fight to qualify for the Champions League.
The Villans are seventh in the table, three points behind fourth placed Nottingham Forest and four behind third placed Manchester City.
Barrenechea could be part of Emery’s plans next season, but if he were to go out on loan again, Valencia will be considered. It won’t be easy for Los Ches to sign him again as Villarreal and Mallorca are also in the mix.
Emery and Aston Villa director Monchi will have the final say on where Barrenechea will play next season.
