Aston Villa Have Set Their Sights On This Villarreal Midfielder: Should Emery Move In For Him? | OneFootball

In a recent report, journalist Graeme Bailey claimed that Aston Villa have set their sights on Villarreal midfielder Alex Baena. It is understood that the Villans are showing interest in recruiting the Spanish attacker in the summer.

Baena’s Impressive Run Of Form In La Liga This Season

Baena has enjoyed a fine campaign at the Spanish club after producing a run of fruitful performances for them in the final third. The Spaniard has played in 40 matches for Villarreal this season, netting five goals and securing 13 assists in the process across various competitions.

The 22-year-old has been a reliable performer in the opponent’s half based on his average of 2.0 shots, 2.4 key passes and 0.7 dribbles per game in La Liga. He has even been tidy when distributing the ball after making 77.9% of his attempted passes in the Spanish top tier (stats via whoscored).

His current contract at Villarreal will run out in the summer of 2028 which would make it tough for the Villans to get him on board for a reduced fee later this year.

VILLARREAL, SPAIN – MARCH 17: Alex Baena of Villarreal CF competes for the ball with Diego Lopez of Valencia CF during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Villarreal CF and Valencia CF at Estadio de la Ceramica on March 17, 2024 in Villarreal, Spain. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Should Aston Villa Boss Unai Emery Move In For Baena?

Baena can find some space for himself to get some strikes in at goal and usually generates some power with his shot attempts. He has got the vision to create a few decent plays for others around him in the final third and is a good dribbler with the ball as well.

The Spanish playmaker can chip in by scoring and creating his fair share of goals in the opposition half. He mainly operates in the number ten position but can also operate as a wide player if told to do so.

We can expect Baena to bring more firepower to Aston Villa boss Unai Emery’s attack. However, only time will tell whether he can adjust to the physical side and high intensity of Premier League football.

Still, the Villans would be wise to move in for Baena. He has what it takes to help the West Midlands club challenge across all fronts in the coming years. At 22, Baena has got a bright future ahead in European football, so the Villans should think about signing him later this summer.