Aston Villa are still firmly in the hunt for Real Betis winger Jesús Rodríguez, despite Serie A newcomers Como holding a meeting earlier this week to accelerate their bid.
According to Diario de Sevilla, both Villa and Como are “stalking” the 19-year-old talent, who now seems certain to leave Real Betis this summer. The Spanish club are reportedly asking for €30–35m for their academy product.
Unai Emery, who has made no secret of his admiration for the winger, is believed to have directly asked Monchi and Damian Vidagany to bring Rodríguez to Villa Park.
Como Meeting No Deterrent for Villa
Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio confirmed that Como met with Rodríguez’s camp this week, hoping to finalise terms swiftly. However, Villa have not backed down and are still working behind the scenes to win the race.
Real Betis, meanwhile, are already lining up replacements, including Bryan Zaragoza (Bayern Munich) and Rodrigo Riquelme (Atlético Madrid) — a clear sign they’re preparing for life without Rodríguez.
“He’s a player we rate very highly — and the right offer will be considered,” said a Betis source. — Diario de Sevilla
Could Barrenechea Be the Bargaining Chip?
Adding another layer to the story, Enzo Barrenechea, who spent last season on loan and is expected to leave Villa this summer, is now a key target for Betis to replace Johnny Cardoso (who is Betis-bound from Atlético Madrid).
Villa may choose to offer Barrenechea as part of the deal, lowering the fee for Rodríguez and edging out Como in the process.
Key Transfer Stats
| Player | Club | Market Value |
|---|---|---|
| Jesús Rodríguez | Real Betis | €35m |
| Enzo Barrenechea | Aston Villa | €10m |
| Rodrigo Riquelme | Atlético Madrid | €25m |
Analyst Verdict
Jesús Rodríguez fits the profile of an Emery winger: explosive, direct, and positionally versatile. Villa's leverage with Barrenechea could prove decisive in a deal that ticks both tactical and financial boxes.
Key Insights
- Jesús Rodríguez valued at €30–35m
- Villa remain in race despite Como’s early talks
- Betis already identifying replacements
- Enzo Barrenechea could be used to sweeten the deal
What’s Next?
Villa could formalise an offer before Betis complete talks with Atlético for Cardoso. A Barrenechea + cash deal may be the tipping point.
Would Rodríguez be Emery’s smartest signing yet?
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