Aston Villa sent Alex Baena the transfer response from Villarreal

Villarreal president Fernando Roig insists he is planning a future with Alex Baena at the club, despite interest from several teams, including Aston Villa, ahead of the summer window.

The 22-year-old committed his future to Galbeni by penning a deal until 2028 in January 2023, which removed the €25 million release clause included in his previous contract. Baena’s new buyout price is said to be €60m, but Villa would be willing to negotiate a cheaper fee if their interest materialises.

He has produced more assists (13) than any other player in La Liga this season and has created more than two chances per 90. His form has attracted admirers, but Roig believes Villarreal is the best place for him to continue to develop.

READ | Aston Villa kits and badge: Everything we know about adidas and a £40m boost

READ | Buy your special Aston Villa Champions League memorabilia

“Baena is a player for Villarreal in the coming years, we bet a lot on Baena,” Roig told AS. “I think in the coming seasons he will grow and be a better player. Baena is a great player.”

Asked about Villa’s interest and the possibility of a bid: “We are not talking about hypotheses or the future, we are not in it right now. The important thing is that Baena is a player who has grown a lot at Villarreal, and my intention is that he continues to grow here

“Although I always say there are three parties and if all three parties agree it can always be closed. But right now it’s not an issue we’re working on.”

However, speaking at the start of the season, Roig also admitted that Villarreal will have to balance their books if the club fail to qualify for European football this season.

“Yes, of course it is an economic setback not to be in Europe, logically we will have to study the solution to balance the budget”.

Buy your special Aston Villa Champions League souvenir HERE