Aston Villa target ‘says goodbye’ to teammates as transfer looks likely - but PSG approach looms

Aston Villa transfer target Marco Asensio has reportedly said his farewells to his teammates ahead of a summer departure from Real Madrid. The 27-year-old’s contract is up at the end of June and he will become a free agent despite contributing nine goals and six assists in La Liga throughout 2022-23.

Villa aren’t the only club in the race as the likes of Newcastle United, Chelsea, Arsenal, AC Milan and Juventus have been touted – but it seems as if Unai Emery’s side are the most probable at this stage. The Villans want a new wide man and someone of Asensio’s calibre cannot be ignored.

According to Spanish outlet Marca, “the hours of Asensio as a Real Madrid player are coming to an end” and Villa are specifically a team of interest as “Emery wants to make him one of the most important players in the Premier League” this summer.

The Villans may have to look over their shoulders, however, as Paris Saint-Germain are “appearing in the rear” by considering Asensio as an option. With Lionel Messi expected to leave Les Parc des Princes, the French giants will be in need of a new winger and Asensio could be their man.

Marca’s report doesn’t detail any approach from either Villa or PSG but Birmingham Live understands Emery has “already opened dialogue” with the winger over a potential move. This could put the claret and blue side ahead of PSG for now.

It could be an important transfer for the Villans after securing European football for the first time in 13 years. A famous victory over Brighton & Hove Albion on the Premier League final day guaranteed qualification for the Europa Conference League play-off round and they will now need more players.

Asensio has not only a wealth of experience across the nearby continent but he has won the Champions League three times. The Spain international has also got three La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey, three UEFA Super Cup wins and four FIFA Club World Cup medals to his name. He would be some acquisition.