Aston Villa reignite interest in Champions League winner who previously rejected Unai Emery
Aston Villa have reportedly reignited their interest in three-time Champions League winner Marco Asensio with Paris Saint-Germain open to letting him leave the club during the January transfer window.
Asensio has been in the French capital for a year and a half after Unai Emery and Villa failed to tempt him to the West Midlands in the summer of 2023 upon the expiry of his contract at Real Madrid. Instead, the Spaniard opted for a move to PSG where he has scored two goals and provided four assists in 15 appearances this season, but has been left on the bench in three of the team's last four Ligue 1 fixtures.
According to CaughtOffside, Asensio is 'willing to consider' a move away from the Parc des Princes and 'is known to be in talks' with both the Villans and Premier League rivals Newcastle United. At 28 years of age, the former Real Madrid attacking midfielder is at a crucial stage in his career and, since he has been unable to establish himself at a key figure in Luis Enrique's PSG team, must act now to ensure he does not tail off into obscurity when he should be in his peak years.
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A move away from Paris seems the best option for Asensio, with him more likely to achieve consistent first-team football elsewhere. The midfielder, who can play in a central attacking role or out wide, could be a good fit for Emery's side who are keen to bolster the wide attacking areas, particularly on the right. As a left-footed player, the Spain international would fit in on the right and offer healthy competition for the out-of-form Leon Bailey.
The Parisians are reportedly willing to listen to offers in the region of €25-€30 million which would be a good deal for a player with European pedigree and experience at the highest level of the game.
However, it was revealed on Thursday that the Villans are currently pursuing a deal for Borussia Dortmund forward Donyell Malen and it looks like that deal will take priority over any pursuit for Asensio, with the Claret and Blues unlikely to sign both players given their financial constraints. Malen would also be cheaper, with Villa's first bid of £15 million rejected but talks still ongoing.
Other clubs monitoring the situation of the Ligue 1 winner are Villa's domestic rivals Arsenal and Spanish outfits Real Betis and Real Sociedad.
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