'Not closed off' - Unai Emery makes Financial Fair Play admission over Aston Villa stars

Aston Villa boss Unai Emery has admitted that the club could consider offers for some of their key players as they look to balance the books this summer.

Everton received a 10-point deduction for breaching FFP rules and Nottingham Forest will find out on Monday whether they will face similar punishment. Emery's side have enjoyed a brilliant season so far, with the West Midlands club currently second in the Premier League table. Ollie Watkins, John McGinn, Emi Martinez and Douglas Luiz have all been star performers for the Villa during the first half of the season.

Luiz has been linked with a move to Arsenal in the past and Mikel Arteta is a big admirer of the 25-year-old, although Villa will want to keep hold of their star man beyond this season.

But speaking to the Daily Mail, Emery admitted the club could be forced to sell their players due to FFP rules. He said "We are trying to keep to Financial Fair Play while holding on to the best players in our squad.

"But of course we are not closed off to selling someone if a very good offer comes in and it gives us the possibility to improve our FFP position." He added: "We are going to work with respect to the rules. However, we must be sure we do not lose our potential as a team — even if we have to sell some players."