Aston Villa ‘battle’ Chelsea for defender as Unai Emery ‘closes in’ on Real Madrid transfer

Aston Villa’s season has drawn to a close, and what a season it was.

Unai Emery achieved an immense turnaround at Villa Park, leading the club from possible relegation trouble to the Europa League, ending an exile from Europe lasting more than a decade. Emery has already achieved much more than expected, and there will be plenty of excitement ahead of next season, especially given the Spaniard’s reputation for winning the Europa League.

In the meantime, we have rounded up all the latest news surrounding Villa Park.

Torres links

Aston Villa are said to be interested in Villarreal star Pau Torres ahead of the summer.

Emery is very familiar with the left-sided centre-back with whom he won the Europa League. Torres has long been billed as one of the most talented centre-backs in Spain, and he has previously been linked with a move to Manchester United.

According to The Mirror, both Villa and Chelsea are interested, while Juventus are also keeping an eye on the defender’s situation. Torres’ current release clause is more than £50million, while Villarreal are also trying to agree a new contract with him. Torres has a close relationship witht he club having grown up in the town.

Asensio latest

Villa’s Spanish shopping may not end there, with reports claiming the club are interested in a move for Real Madrid star Marco Asensio.

According to Marca, Villa are closing in on the signing of the experienced Spain international, and for free. Asensio is out of contract this summer, and he does not look likely to extend his deal. Still only 27 years of age, Asensio would be a huge grab for Villa, who need more talent across their front line ahead of a European campaign.

Asesnio has won four Champions League titles and many other honours during his career so far.