Xavi Hernandez wants Barcelona to pursue Aston Villa target Alex Baena, whose release clause is worth €60 million, in 2024.
According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Xavi Hernandez is a keen admirer of Alex Baena. The Barcelona manager wants the Blaugrana to launch the offensive for the Spaniard next year. He is also a target for Premier League high-flyers Aston Villa. Meanwhile, the player’s Villarreal contract has a release clause worth €60 million.
Alex Baena is a native of Roquetas de Mar and started his youth career in his hometown. But the 22-year-old spent most of his formative years with Villarreal after joining them in 2011. He then rapidly rose through the ranks before making his first-team debut in July 2020, towards the end of the 2019/20 season.
Since then, the Spaniard has come leaps and bounds, becoming a regular for Villarreal while making his international debut for his country. Baena has started the 2023/24 season strongly, chipping in with one goal and two assists in four appearances thus far. Meanwhile, the youngster’s progress has captured the attention of Barcelona and Aston Villa.
The Spanish international was popular in the market during the summer transfer window. He was a target for several well-known Premier League clubs. Barcelona also considered securing Baena’s services. But a move did not materialise, with Villarreal keeping hold of the promising youngster.
However, Baena’s stock remains high, with Aston Villa joining the race to sign him. Unai Emery wants a reunion with the 22-year-old next year as he continues solidifying the first-team squad. And the player’s ability to play centrally and out wide makes him an appealing target for Aston Villa.
As for Barcelona, Xavi is driving the club’s bid to sign the Spaniard. The Barcelona manager is an admirer of the Villarreal attacker’s ability. And he wants the Blaugrana to launch the offensive for him in 2024. But he has a release clause worth €60 million in his Villarreal contract, which might complicate matters.
Also Read: Barcelona Summer Transfer Window Verdict 2023
Aston Villa might be able to afford a transfer fee of around €60 million. But Barcelona’s credentials to trigger the release clause are under question. So, it will be interesting to see if they can negotiate a lower fee if they seriously pursue the Spaniard in 2024.
