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See the full story · 1 sourcesBarcelona declare young midfielder ‘untouchable’ amid talks of a potential €35 million Premier League offer
Aston Villa have emerged as surprise contenders for Barcelona midfielder Marc Bernal, with reports in England claiming the Premier League club has made the 19-year-old its top transfer target this summer.
According to reports in England, as relayed by Mundo Deportivo , Villa manager Unai Emery views Bernal as the ideal addition to strengthen his midfield ahead of the club’s return to the UEFA Champions League.
Villa ready to spend big
The reported interest comes after Aston Villa received a significant financial boost from the sale of Morgan Rogers to Chelsea for €137 million.
Aston Villa interested in Bernal. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
With fresh funds available, the Villans are expected to invest heavily in the squad, and Bernal has become their priority signing.
The report claims the English club are considering an offer worth £30 million (€35 million) for the Barcelona academy graduate.
Barcelona unwilling to sell
Despite the reported interest, Barcelona have no intention of allowing Bernal to leave.
The midfielder is viewed as one of the club’s most important young talents and is expected to play an even bigger role under Hansi Flick next season, particularly following Frenkie de Jong’s injury.
Internally, Barcelona see Bernal as a cornerstone of both the present and the future.
Man City also keeping an eye
The report also suggests Manchester City are keeping a close eye on Bernal .
Enzo Maresca’s side are said to be assessing midfield options amid uncertainty surrounding Rodri’s future, with the Spanish international continuing to be linked with Real Madrid.
Not for sale. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Should Rodri depart, Bernal is among the players City admire as a potential replacement.
Bernal ‘untouchable’
Barcelona’s stance, however, is clear. Bernal is under contract until 2029, and the club has protected its prized academy graduate with a €500 million release clause, underlining their confidence in his long-term importance.
The midfielder is also fully committed to succeeding at the club he has supported throughout his career, and made it clear in a recent interview.
“It’s true that I’ve seen it, but I don’t give it any importance,” he said about the transfer interest in him, before adding, “My wish is to stay here for many years.”
While Premier League interest appears to be growing, Barcelona currently view Bernal as untouchable, making any potential transfer extremely unlikely despite Aston Villa’s reported willingness to spend.
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