Emery demands that Aston Villa sign a star from Atlético in the next transfer window

Aston Villa are set to compete in the race for talented Atletico Madrid defender Mario Hermoso, according to recent reports. The West Midlands club are currently in an intense battle with the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United for a coveted top-four spot in the Premier League table. Although fifth place could also secure a place in the Champions League, this largely depends on the performance of English teams in current European competitions.

Under the direction of Unai Emery, Aston Villa has experienced notable progress and is emerging as the favorite to win the Europa Conference League, despite failing to score goals in the match against Ajax in the round of 16. With their sights set on at least a Europa League spot next season, Emery and the club’s ambitious owners could begin to consider potential targets to bolster their squad.

According to reports from Calciomercato, Aston Villa are seriously considering approaching Mario Hermoso during the upcoming transfer window. The 28-year-old Spanish player, who has amassed considerable experience at the Wanda Metropolitano with 164 appearances and 10 goals scored, could be available as a free agent upon expiry of his contract with Atlético de Madrid at the end of the current season.

Even though Atlético has reopened negotiations with Hermoso’s representatives, it is unclear whether the player is eager to sign new terms, especially given the uncertainty over Atlético’s participation in the upcoming Champions League.