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Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has identified Barcelona's young talent, Marc Bernal, as his top transfer target. The West Midlands club continues to explore all possible scenarios for its current squad, a consequence of the complex financial regulations imposed by the Premier League and UEFA.
According to "The Sun," Emery has decided he wants to add Bernal to his squad before the summer transfer window closes. The publication claims the manager has pinpointed the 19-year-old as his primary objective for the coming weeks.
Bernal has already accumulated 36 appearances for the Catalan giants, contributing five goals and one assist. Emery is reportedly pushing Villa to make an official inquiry for the Spanish international, who the Premier League club values at around £30 million.
Meanwhile, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick believes the academy product should remain at Camp Nou. For this reason, the La Liga champions are expected to reject any offers from Villa unless the English club is prepared to significantly improve its bid. Manchester City has also reportedly had an attempt to sign Bernal rebuffed.
Barcelona boasts an abundance of talented midfielders, including Eric Garcia, Pedri, Gavi, Frenkie de Jong, Marc Casado, and Bernal, all capable of operating in the engine room. Bernal has already demonstrated his potential to become a key figure in the midfield. Although three of his nine La Liga starts in the 2025-26 season came after the title was secured, Flick's willingness to deploy him in those matches underscores his admiration for the youngster.
With a contract running until 2029, all indications suggest Bernal will remain in his homeland this summer.
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