Aston Villa are in communication with Marco Asensio as they prepare a “huge” offer to the player, sources have told Football Insider.
The winger, 27, is on the verge of leaving Real Madrid after rejecting a new contract with the European champions.
Villa are closely monitoring Asensio’s situation and have registered their interest in signing him on a free transfer when his current deal expires next month.
The Spain international is set to be deluged with offers from clubs in the Premier League and overseas.
Aston Villa are hoping to win the race for a player they believe can add great value to Unai Emery’s squad for the 2023-24 campaign.
Asensio has been a backup option for Real Madrid this term but has nonetheless posted decent returns for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.
He has made 18 starts amid 50 total appearances across all competitions, notching 12 goals and eight assists.
The winger, who currently earns a reported wage of over £165,000-a-week, has won three Champions League titles and three La Liga titles during his eight-year spell at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
He primarily plays on the right flank but can also play in attacking midfield, as well as on the left-hand side.
Aston Villa and Emery are seeking reinforcements amid doubts over the futures of their attacking options.
Winger Bertrand Traore is out of contract in June 2024, while Philippe Coutinho could leave Villa Park this summer after just a year at the club.
Football Insider revealed last month (3 April) that a Saudi Arabian club has a strong interest in Coutinho ahead of the summer – and is lining up a “huge” contract offer for the Brazillian.
Aston Villa can strengthen their case for landing Asensio by securing European football on the final day of the season (28 May).
Emery’s side can secure Europa Conference League qualification with a win over Brighton – but anything less than three points will open the door to challenges from Tottenham or Brentford.
