Villarreal have already begun to draw up a list of replacements for Unai Emery, should he leave for Newcastle United as reported.
That’s according to Diario de Sevilla, who say names of candidates are being ‘bandied about’ at this point, although there are two at the top of the list, former Granada boss Diego Martinez and former Barcelona coach Ernesto Valverde.
There has been no movement on securing a replacement for Emery at this point, though, as the club are yet to receive any news about him leaving.
Sources at the club have told EFE that they are unaware of interest from Newcastle, despite reports in England stating talks are at an advanced stage, and the Magpies are willing to pay his release clause.
Reports involving Newcastle in England have caused ‘commotion’ at Villarreal, especially considering the team’s current ‘delicate situation’ in both La Liga and the Champions League.
Despite this, there is a feeling that it will be ‘complicated’ for Emery to leave Villarreal and the project he has been working on halfway through the process.
Furthermore, there is a good relationship with the club, who have confidence in their coach, and have shown a commitment to him.
This has also been conveyed by Emery’s entourage, who have always ‘valued’ the project at Villarreal and the support shown to them by the Roig family.
That would suggest a move to Newcastle is nowhere as advanced as the English media are making out, although it hasn’t been missed by Villarreal, who already seemingly have names in mind should Emery go.
