Aston Villa ‘begin talks’ to sign former Tottenham man as shock contact made for Arsenal forward

Aston Villa have reportedly entered negotiations with Barcelona over the potential signing of France international defender Clement Lenglet.

The 28-year-old has returned to the La Liga giants after a season-long loan spell at Tottenham Hotspur but is expected to leave again in the final days of the summer transfer window.

Whether or not it would be another temporary move or a permanent one awaits to be seen, but Barça have seemingly made it clear to the player that he will have to depart for regular football.

Fabrizio Romano reports Villa have started talks with the Catalan side, following up an initial interest. It’s claimed there are multiple options available to Lenglet but the Villans are making a strong case.

Unai Emery has been left short of depth on the left side of defence following a severe knee injury to Tyrone Mings and the head coach appears to be eager to strengthen before deadline day.

Lenglet played 35 times for Tottenham last campaign, including 26 games in the Premier League and seven in the UEFA Champions League. The Frenchman has 160 Barcelona appearances to his name.

Meanwhile, Villa re-target Emile Smith-Rowe

It may come as a surprise given this once heightened rumour has died down entirely throughout this summer window, but a move for Arsenal winger Emile Smith-Rowe might be back on the cards.

90min claims both Villa and Newcastle United have made contact with Arsenal to sign Emile Smith-Rowe on loan, while Chelsea have enquired about signing the versatile forward permanently.

It’s reported, however, that the Gunners are unwilling to entertain any offers for Smith-Rowe, even despite the player being left on the bench for all three Premier League games so far this term.