Unai Emery, Aston Villa's coach, keeps pushing to secure a top-level reinforcement for its attack in this transfer window. The English side, which just had a great season in the Premier League, wants to take another step forward in its ambitions and become a Champions League team in the future. This season, it will play in the Europa League, and Emery is aware that he needs more firepower to compete.
The roadmap includes the goal of adding a forward with scoring ability and international experience. The Basque coach believes that bringing in a player with this profile could be decisive to keep the level throughout the season and bring the club closer to the top positions.
Ferran Torres, the priority target
That player is none other than Ferran Torres. Barça's forward has caught Aston Villa's attention after a campaign in which, despite not being a starter, he posted impressive numbers: 19 goals and 7 assists. His effectiveness in front of goal and his ability to score in key moments have made him a highly attractive piece in the market.
Ferran, who has played in several attacking positions under Hansi Flick, has shown himself to be an extremely valuable offensive asset. Whether starting from the wing or acting as the main reference up front, he has replied with goals and assists. That versatility is one of the aspects that most appeals to Emery, who sees him as the perfect complement for his attacking line.
They raise the offer
Aston Villa's interest isn't new. According to various reports, the English club had sounded out Barça with an initial offer of 40 million. However, the Catalan side wasn't convinced to accept that amount, given that Ferran Torres has a valid contract and enjoys Flick's trust.
Now, according to El Nacional, Emery has reportedly given the green light to raise the offer to 50 million euros. The goal is to try to tempt Barça with a figure that could make it reconsider its stance.
The ball is now in Barça's court. Flick values Ferran for his performance and commitment, but the temptation of a big-money sale could spark an internal debate. Meanwhile, Emery keeps insisting, determined to bring to Birmingham a player who would fit perfectly into his European project.