Unai Emery has already made Aston Villa transfer call amid 'lucrative' Saudi offer

Unai Emery has already given his verdict on the possibility of Lucas Digne leaving Aston Villa amid reemerging interest from Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal.

Digne was heavily linked with a move away from Villa Park in the summer - and there was a lucrative offer tabled - but he ended up staying put. French outlet L'Équipe reports Al-Hilal have reared their heads once again as they attempt to bring Digne to Saudi Arabia on loan, with an option to buy.

Emery's stance has been clear on Digne departing, though, with the manager keen on maintaining depth at left-back. "I'm very, very happy with him. I think he's important for the squad and I can tell you he's going to be with us," Emery told Birmingham World on August 31.

It's understood Emery's opinion hasn't changed since then, with Digne only emphasising his importance further throughout this season. Alex Moreno was the clear favourite at left-back last campaign but the choice is now far trickier due to Digne's resurgence. "I am very happy with both, they have the mentality that we want," Emery said about the pair on December 21.

Villa could be boosted, too, by Al-Hilal considering another option in Bayern Munich star Raphaël Guerreiro. The Portugal international, formerly of Borussia Dortmund, is said to be on Al-Hilal's shortlist if a move for Digne fails.

Nothing in Leonardo Spinazzola to Aston Villa

Extra reassurance on the Digne situation can be taken from the fact Villa don't appear to be in the market for a replacement. There were links to AS Roma star and Italy international Leonardo Spinazzola, but transfer news reporter Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Villa aren't working on a deal.