Matteo Guendouzi is open to joining Aston Villa from Marseille this month as he is keen to link up again with Unai Emery.
The France midfielder worked with Emery during the Spaniard’s spell at Arsenal before falling from favour under Mikel Arteta.
Now playing in his homeland, Guendouzi is a huge admirer of Emery, who would like to add the 23-year-old either in January or at the end of the season.
He is valued at about £30million, however, and his club are reluctant to lose such a key player in the middle of a season.
Emery was also keen to bring Guendouzi to Villarreal and when he led the Spanish club to the Europa League in 2021, Guendouzi posted a glowing tweet about his old boss.
He wrote: ‘What a journey! This Football… so smart and elegant! You made the dream of an entire city, of a club, a team, and of all the fans come true!
‘You did it ! You know how to win trophies! Hats off Monsieur Emery. You are so unique.
‘I am honored [sic] and proud to have had the opportunity to evolve by your side. Words will never be strong enough to qualify your personality, your benevolence and your authenticity in human relationships.
‘All my congratulations coach @UnaiEmery_ and bravo to @VillarrealCF.’
Meanwhile, Villa midfielder Morgan Sanson, 28, is wanted on loan by Montpellier.
The West Midlands club also confirmed the signing of left-back Alexis Moreno from Real Betis for £12.5m on Wednesday.