Aston Villa seek quality Barcelona attacker after Felix failure, with Emery UCL plan clear

Emery wants attacking reinforcements after Felix deal collapses

Aston Villa are reportedly targeting a move for a Barcelona attacker in January after their pursuit of Joao Felix ended in disappointment.

Unai Emery is keen to add more firepower to his squad as he looks to guide Villa into European contention.

The Villans have been linked with a move for Memphis Depay, who is out of favour at Barcelona.

Depay available for cut-price fee

The Netherlands international is available for a cut-price fee in January, with Barcelona keen to get his wages off their books.

Depay has scored 14 goals in 42 appearances for Barcelona, but he has fallen down the pecking order under Xavi.

The 28-year-old would be a valuable addition to Villa's squad, and he would be available for a relatively low fee.

Emery has clear UCL plan

Emery is determined to guide Villa into the Champions League, and he believes that adding more quality to his squad is essential.

The Spaniard has a proven track record of success in Europe, having won the Europa League three times with Sevilla.

Villa are currently 12th in the Premier League, but they have shown signs of improvement under Emery.

Villa have ambition to succeed

The club's owners have made it clear that they have ambitions to succeed, and they are willing to back Emery in the transfer market.

Villa have already spent over £100m on new players this summer, and they are prepared to spend more in January if the right targets are available.

The signing of a Barcelona attacker would be a major statement of intent from Villa, and it would send a clear message that they are serious about challenging for a place in Europe.