Aston Villa have reportedly dropped out of the race for Atletico Madrid forward Joao Felix and Barcelona’s Raphinha.
The Lions secured a Champions League berth last season, finishing ahead of Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Manchester United in the Premier League.
Unai Emery’s side aim to do well in Europe as well as in the English top-flight in 2024-25. They have already completed moves for some top talents this summer, including Ian Maatsen, Lewis Dobbin, Amadou Onana, and Jaden Philogene.
But they want further reinforcements and were linked with stunning moves for Joao Felix and Raphinha.
However, latest reports from Mundo Deportivo suggest they are no longer in the race for the big-name duo due to their enormous valuation.
Felix, who spent the previous season on loan at Barcelona, is expected to cost between €60 and €70 million.
The Catalans are also understood to be demanding a similar fee for Raphinha who has been an important first-team player since joining them from Leeds United in 2022.
Villa are set to receive around €60m for Moussa Diaby who has agreed a long-term contract with Saudi Pro League club Al Ittihad.
The Midlands outfit want to sign a replacement for the 25-year-old but it is quite clear they are not willing to spend all the money from Diaby’s deal.
With moves for Felix and Raphinha unlikely now, Unai Emery’s side could look for alternative targets like Eberechi Eze, Nico Williams and Morgan Gibbs-White.
