Aston Villa are keen to explore a move for Mikel Jauregizar, and are ready to pay at least €60 million for the Athletic Club mainstay.

According to Fichajes, Mikel Jauregizar is emerging to be a key target for Unai Emery ahead of the January window. The Spanish coach wants a big-profile midfielder in January, as Aston Villa will look to pay at least €60 million for the Athletic Club mainstay.

Mikel Jauregizar has established himself as one of the midfield sensations in La Liga and a key part of the Athletic Club setup. Having come through the ranks at the Basque club, he has garnered plenty of attention from those in the Premier League.

Liverpool were keen earlier, and could still retain an interest in the midfielder ahead of future windows, while Manchester City are also interested. The profile of Jauregizar makes him a unique commodity in the market, as Chelsea are also his admirer.

However, it is Aston Villa who are eager to push ahead and explore a move for the midfielder, as Unai Emery is reportedly adamant about the Athletic Club star. Villa are seemingly willing to table an offer of at least €60 million for the midfielder to test the Basque side on their resolve.

He may not be the only name on their radar, as Nathan De Cat is another concrete option ahead of January. Aston Villa are also among those interested in a move for Rangers’ young midfielder Bailey Rice, while there are other names under consideration, including Jauregizar.

Could Aston Villa sign Mikel Jauregizar?

That is the big question, as Athletic Club is are tough negotiator and often does not entertain offers for their best talents. They are also known to make their best efforts to keep hold of key stars, as they showered in the summer with Nico Williams.

While Aston Villa could potentially offer the €60 million-rated La Liga midfielder a key role in Emery’s plans, the fee mentioned may not prove enough, especially in January. Athletic Club may have a much more significant release clause included in the midfielder’s contract, and will likely demand that in full during a mid-season window, which may diminish Aston Villa’s chances of signing Jauregizar.