Ruben Amorim blow as Aston Villa move ahead of Man Utd for £68m marquee signing

Villa are said to be preparing an approach for Athletic Bilbao midfielder Oihan Sancet, a player wanted by Premier League rivals Man Utd.

Unai Emery reportedly wants to add further quality to his already stocked midfield at Villa Park and believes Sancet is the perfect option to do just that. The 24-year-old has scored five goals in 12 appearances across La Liga and the UEFA Europa League so far this season.

CaughtOffside reports Villa are ‘in the box seat’ ahead of Man Utd to sign Sancet, with Monchi and Emery ready to test Athletic’s resolve for the midfielder. The publication’s sources suggest Villa are likely to make a ‘significant bid’ in the upcoming January transfer window.

It will be difficult for the Villans to complete a move, however, as Sancet has a release clause of €80 million (£67.8 million) inserted into his Athletic contract. Villa are said to be undecided whether they believe Sancet is worth such a hefty fee, so alternative strategies are ‘being considered’.

United have been heavily linked with a move for Sancet over recent months and speculation is expected to intensify following the arrival of Amorim at Old Trafford. The new head coach - the replacement for Erik ten Hag - will want to make his mark on his squad in the January transfer window.

Although the Red Devils have a much bigger reputation than Villa, the Champions League football on offer at Villa Park could perhaps sway the decision-making of any other players being targeted by both clubs.

Sancet, still just 24 years of age, has made four senior appearances for Spain since making his international debut last October. The attacking midfielder, who has contributed 30 goals and 15 assists in 169 career appearances for Athletic, still has seven and a half years left on his contract.