Aston Villa are reportedly prepared to pay £15m for Ilaix Moriba, but Celta Vigo have rejected that valuation as Unai Emery continues rebuilding his midfield.
The Guinea international also has reservations about moving to Villa Park because he fears being used mainly as a squad player. The 23-year-old is therefore not pushing to leave Celta at this stage.
The update was reported by Aston Villa News, citing Alan Nixon via Patreon. Villa’s interest remains active, although the clubs have yet to find common ground over the fee.
Villa were already considering a move before Youri Tielemans left for Manchester United and Amadou Onana suffered a serious knee injury. Those developments have moved central midfield closer to the top of Emery’s priorities.
ReadAstonVilla previously covered Villa’s willingness to pay around £15m for Moriba, with Celta valuing the former Barcelona youngster considerably higher.
Moriba stance could influence Barkley decision
Moriba’s concern over playing time presents another obstacle for Villa. Johan Manzambi has already arrived, while João Gomes is also expected to join Emery’s squad.
Boubacar Kamara will return from injury, meaning Moriba would face competition for a regular starting place once Villa’s midfield is fully available.
Villa must therefore convince him that he would receive enough opportunities across the Premier League, Champions League and domestic cups. A higher offer alone may not be enough to complete the transfer.
The situation could also affect Ross Barkley’s future. The 32-year-old has been told he can leave, with Coventry City and Fulham reportedly interested, but Villa are now considering keeping him.
Barkley would provide experienced cover without another transfer fee. Retaining him becomes more attractive if Celta refuse to reduce their asking price or Moriba remains unconvinced by the proposed role.
Villa have the funds to strengthen after Morgan Rogers’ record sale, but Emery’s expanding list of midfield options requires careful management. Moriba remains under consideration, although both the valuation gap and the player’s stance must change before a deal can advance.
