Unai Emery in ‘direct contact’ with Liverpool target as Monchi ‘rings Barcelona’ about transfer

Aston Villa head coach Unai Emery and director of football operations Monchi are reportedly in direct talks with Barcelona and Abde Ezzalzouli to complete a Deadline Day transfer.

Spanish journalist Pepe Elías, who earlier broke the news that Villa were trying a late hijack, reports Emery has spoken directly to the player to attempt to convince him to join.

Monchi, meanwhile, is said to be in negotiations with Barcelona to try and iron out the club-to-club side of the deal. Real Betis have been leading the race but Villa are hoping to hijack at the final hour.

Abde, a full Morocco international with seven caps, was linked to Liverpool earlier this week. The Reds were said to have made contact with Barça to enquire about his availability.

With just a few hours left of the summer transfer window, the Villans have left it late but are desperately making a move to replace Philippe Coutinho, who is departing for Al Duhail.

Abde, who can play on either wing, is said to be available for around £17 million after he scored four and assisted two in 28 La Liga appearances on loan at Osasuna last campaign.