Unai Emery would ‘love to take’ player to Aston Villa in January – Will have to show ambition

Real Sociedad are aware Aston Villa ‘like’ Mikel Merino, according to Mundo Deportivo.

In the past few weeks, the Villans have been looking at Spain to possibly bolster their squad for the second half of this season.

This trend emerged after Aston Villa appointed Unai Emery as their new manager in October. The latest player linked to the Premier League side is Merino.

It’s claimed Emery would ‘love to take’ the midfielder to Villa Park in the winter market. His contract is until 2025 and includes a €60m release clause.

The ex-Newcastle United man’s form for La Real in recent years has seen him linked to other clubs. Despite this, Merino is ambitious and happy with his current employer.

For this season, it does not seem likely he will join Aston Villa since they are not playing in the European competition this term. Emery’s side are not expected to be in contention to make it to Europe next season as they are currently 12th in the table.

Indeed, the financial power of the English club is ‘indisputable’, and it was recently shown by the appointment of the former Arsenal manager.

However, Aston Villa don’t seem to attract Merino sporting wise at the moment. It’s not just Merino who is against the idea of joining Emery’s side.

Real Sociedad are not willing to let go of the player in January and his renewal will be one of the most important strategic operations in the near future.