Barcelona sporting director Deco looks set to miss out on his top midfield target this summer for the Catalans.
Everton midfielder Amadou Onana has long been touted as Deco’s favourite, if funds allow, but is now set to move to Aston Villa instead.
The Athletic’s David Ornstein reports that Villa are currently finalising a big-money move for the 22-year-old Belgium international.
Unai Emery’s side will pay around £50 million to bring in Onana as they prepare for the new season in which they will play Champions League football.
Meanwhile, Barcelona’s hunt for a new midfielder appears to have gone cold, with Nico Williams having emerged as the club’s top target instead.