Exclusive: Aston Villa chiefs ready to back Emery on ‘huge’ De Bruyne deal
Aston Villa chiefs will back Unai Emery if he wants to strike a free transfer deal for Kevin De Bruyne, sources have told Football Insider.
Sky Sports reported last week (24 April) that Villa have held internal discussions over a move for the playmaker – who is leaving Man City at the end of his contract in June.
De Bruyne, 33, is keen to stay at the highest level as he considers his next move – but is on a huge deal at City.
Football Insider revealed last week (21 April) that he would have to take a huge pay cut to remain in the Premier League.
Emery will get full backing if he wants De Bruyne
Aston Villa are ambitious and sources say if Emery sets his sights on a deal for De Bruyne – he will get full backing.
It is believed clubs from Major League Soccer and the Saudi Pro League will table lucrative deals for the Belgium international.
| Appearances (Starts) | 35 (23) |
| Minutes Played | 2053 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 8 |
| Yellow Cards | 2 |
The final decision will lie with De Bruyne, who has struggled with injury in recent seasons with Man City – leading to them declining to offer him a contract renewal.
He has scored five goals and notched eight goals in 35 appearances across all competitions for City this season.
De Bruyne has won six Premier League titles at the Etihad Stadium and could win his final City trophy in the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace next month.
Aston Villa ready to sell Watkins and sign Rashford
Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed on 21 April that Aston Villa are exploring the possibility of signing Marcus Rashford permanently and selling Ollie Watkins for £50-60million.
Villa have the option to sign Rashford from Man United for £40million when his loan deal ends this summer.
It is believed Unai Emery’s side will need to be creative yet again in the summer window to ensure they do not breach financial rules in the Premier League and Europe.
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