Aston Villa's manager, Unai Emery, is reportedly keen on securing the services of Marco Asensio from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). This insight comes from Mick Brown, a former chief scout for Manchester United and Blackburn, who has maintained strong connections with Villa Park. In a conversation with Football Insider, Brown suggested that Asensio, who is nearing his 29th birthday, may be contemplating a move to the English Premier League.
Since his transfer to PSG from Real Madrid in 2023, Asensio has emerged as a target for Emery, particularly following Villa's initial interest after his departure from Spain. During his time in Paris, the attacking midfielder has featured in 46 matches, contributing seven goals and 11 assists. However, securing a regular starting position has proven to be a challenge for him.
This season, Asensio has made just eight appearances in PSG's 17 league fixtures under manager Luis Enrique, intensifying speculation that he may seek more consistent playing time elsewhere. His versatility—capable of operating as an attacking midfielder, on either wing, or even as a centre-forward—renders him an appealing option for Villa.
Emery, alongside Villa's director of football, Monchi, possesses robust connections within Spanish football. Emery’s previous experience at PSG further equips him to assess Asensio's current situation effectively. Brown emphasised that these relationships will be crucial in determining the feasibility of bringing the Spanish international to Villa Park.
Drawing on his extensive background in player recruitment, Brown underscored the importance of acquiring a player of Asensio's calibre. “Unai Emery and the director of football will already know him well,” he stated. “They're likely to be speaking to their contacts in Spain about him, about his availability and whether that would be a deal they can do this month. Emery was at PSG before, so he'll be speaking to people there too. They’ll have a very good idea about what his level is and where he'll fit into the team.”
Brown also highlighted the need for a cautious approach in the transfer market, recalling wisdom from former manager Ron Atkinson: “Ron Atkinson always used to say - anybody can make a mistake in the transfer market, but not when it's a player you already know well. So Villa will have to be confident about whether the move will pay off before they bring him in, and they'll be working to ensure that is the case. He's got a very good reputation and his talent and quality is certainly there. He's also a player that's been on Aston Villa's list for a while; they're big fans of his."
In a separate development, reports suggest that Aston Villa may consider parting ways with defender Diego Carlos this month. Fans and followers of the club are encouraged to stay informed about the latest developments regarding these potential transfers, as the January window approaches.