Last summer, Aston Villa were ready to welcome Real Sociedad’s Mikel Merino but weren’t able to get a deal over the deal, and they were again linked in January.
A fresh report Mundo Deportivo now mentions Aston Villa’s interest in the 27-year-old.
The Spain international has a year left on his deal, and the La Liga side want to extend his contract. Merino only wants to focus on the Euros, and doesn’t want to listen to La Real’s renewal offer or interest from other clubs.
The midfielder is aware of Barcelona’s desire to sign him, while the report points out interest from Juventus and Aston Villa, who have wanted to sign him for a ‘long time’.
Merino, who has a €65m clause, hasn’t yet received offers. His entourage have doubts if any of the interested parties will make an effort to convince both the player and his club this summer.
Meanwhile, Real Sociedad are concerned the Spaniard is less likely to sign an extension. They aren’t willing to give up as the newspaper says La Real are ready to make a significant effort to get closer to his salary request.