Villa boost as top target tipped for exit but agreement still missing

Aston Villa transfer target Pau Torres has reportedly decided that he will leave Villarreal this summer and we’re tipped as favourites to sign him, but there is still work to be done to reach a deal.

The 26-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to reunite with Unai Emery at Villa this summer, as we’re seemingly keen on strengthening our defensive options.

READ MORE: Villa ace continues treatment on injury but offers positive update

Having come through the youth ranks at the club, Torres has enjoyed some memorable moments at Villarreal and has been a key part of their success in recent years, but it’s now suggested that he’s ready for the next chapter in his career.

According to Marca, the Spanish international has now decided to leave Villarreal this summer having considered his options in recent weeks, and we’re touted as favourites to sign him. However, we have yet to reach an agreement with the La Liga side on a fee as they are demanding a hefty sum, despite Torres having just one year remaining on his current contract.

It’s added that Villarreal are demanding in excess of €45m, and so it remains to be seen if a compromise can be reached, and relatively quickly too in order to avoid any competition from swooping in and beating us to his signature.

As noted above though, with his current contract set to expire next summer, question marks will be raised over that touted valuation, as that certainly seems excessive in the circumstances and so it’s no surprise if Villa are trying to negotiate it down to something more reasonable.

In turn, while it sounds as though Torres will be on the move in the coming weeks and Villa are in a strong position to convince him to join us and secure a reunion with Emery, it’s still unclear if an agreement will be found between the two clubs.

Should Torres arrive, he would raise the level of competition in defence significantly with his quality and experience, and so it will hopefully be the first of many statement signings this summer from Villa as we look to build on our progress under Emery last season and take further strides forward.