Mateu Alemany targeting three La Liga stars for Aston Villa

Barcelona have already announced that Mateu Alemany will step down from the football director role at the end of the season, although he will see through the club’s summer transfer plans.

The Spanish chief has chosen Premier League as his next destination, with Aston Villa reportedly closing in on his appointment.

According to AS, Alemany is looking to raid the Spanish top flight for three players: Ferran Torres, Marco Asensio and Alex Baena.

Villa owner Wes Edens is planning to back manager Unai Emery in the transfer market in a bid to be one of the most competitive sides in the Premier League next summer.

Emery has done notable work at Villa Park this season, and he is set to work with his compatriot Alemany in tandem.

Torres is one of the players Barcelona are looking to sell this summer in order to reduce their bloated wage bill, which will help them comply with FFP and sign desired targets, including Lionel Messi.

The Spanish forward has experienced a difficult spell since his big-money move from Manchester City, failing to nail down a regular spot under Xavi this season.

Torres is said to be available for around €25 million and Alemany wants to persuade him to Villa Park.

Asensio’s future at Real Madrid remains unresolved, with his contract expiring in the summer.

There are several reports stating that the Spanish winger is leaning towards a renewal, yet the Lions are closely following him.

Villarreal’s Alex Baena is also on the wishlist of several English clubs, however, Villa seem to have the edge since Emery previously worked with him at the Spanish club.

Emery played a big role in Baena breaking out to the first team, with the Spanish forward netting ten goals and six assists in all competitions this season.