Barcelona have already announced that Mateu Alemany will step down from the football director role at the end of the season, although he will see through the club’s summer transfer plans.
The Spanish chief has chosen Premier League as his next destination, with Aston Villa reportedly closing in on his appointment.
According to AS, Alemany is looking to raid the Spanish top flight for three players – Ferran Torres, Marco Asensio and Alex Baena.
Villa owner Wes Edens is planning to back manager Unai Emery in the transfer market in a bid to be one of the most competitive sides in the Premier League next summer.
Emery has done notable work at Villa Park this season, and he is set to work in tandem with his compatriot.
Torres is one of the players Barcelona are looking to sell this summer to reduce their bloated wage bill, which will help them comply with Financial Fair Pay rules.
The Spanish forward has experienced a difficult spell since his big-money move from Manchester City, failing to nail down a regular spot under Xavi this season.
Torres is available for around €25 million and the club have already opened negotiations to secure his services.
Asensio’s future at Real Madrid remains unresolved, with his contract expiring this summer.
The Spanish winger is leaning towards a renewal, but Villa are closely monitoring the situation.
Baena is also on the wishlist of several English clubs, but Villa have the edge since Emery previously worked with him in Spain.
