Aston Villa plot last-minute hijack of deal for Barcelona winger, with expected transfer now in doubt

Aston Villa are reportedly still interested in signing Barcelona winger Abde Ezzalzouli, with his move to Real Betis at risk of collapse. 

The Villains have been linked with the 21-year-old for some time but recent reports have suggested that Real Betis had won the race for his signature.

Ezzalzouli spent last season on loan with Osasuna, where he scored six goals in all competitions for the La Liga side. The winger also helped the Spanish club reach the Copa del Rey final for the first time, which they lost to Real Madrid.

Unai Emery is thought to be keen on the Morocco international. He has already brought in one winger this summer – Moussa Diaby – but could still sanction a late move for the Barcelona star.

According to Spanish journalist Pepe Elias, Aston Villa could make a late move to sign Ezzalzouli ahead of the 11pm deadline. He claims that the Villans, along with a number of other La Liga clubs will “enter the bid” after problems have arisen with his move to Betis.

With that in mind, Ezzalzouli is definitely a player for Villa fans to keep an eye on as we enter into the final few hours of the transfer window.

READ MORE: Aston Villa transfers: Barcelona centre-back completes loan switch to offset Tyrone Mings loss