Newcastle, Aston Villa eyeing winger

footsoccer

3 weeks ago

Newcastle United and Aston Villa are both keen on the potential transfer of Villarreal winger Alex Baena, though the deal won’t come cheap.

Sources with a close understanding of the situation have informed CaughtOffside that Newcastle have been eager to invest in a winger, with Barcelona star Raphinha previously on their radar, though it’s now clear that his improved form means he won’t be available.

Baena could also be tricky to sign, but looks slightly more realistic, with the 23-year-old valued at around €65m by Villarreal after his continued impressive performances.

Both Newcastle and Aston Villa have had scouts in attendance to watch Baena in recent games against Getafe and Real Valladolid, CaughtOffside understands, and both clubs have clearly been left impressed by the player.

Alex Baena with Spain (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

Alex Baena transfer: Will he move to Newcastle or Aston Villa?

Baena is understood to be open to a move to the Premier League, so that wouldn’t be an obstacle, and it’s also felt that he’d be keen on working with Unai Emery again after they previously crossed paths at Villarreal.

That could perhaps give Villa a slight edge over Newcastle in this transfer battle, though it’s still too early to know for sure.