Aston Villa boss Unai Emery will undoubtedly be rubbing his hands as the first transfer window of his reign draws close, with several targets already circled. 

What’s the word?

Spanish publication Vamos mi Sevilla have recently reported that four European outfits are looking to clinch the service of the versatile flanker, who won the Copa America with Argentina last year.

Reports in Spain suggest that Emery is intrigued by the prospect of luring Sevilla ace Marcos Acuna to Villa Park and bolstering his wide options.

Despite winning two of his first three matches for the midlands club, the Spaniard will look to add his own flair to the side, making tweaks and changes as he looks to lead Villa back towards the upper end of the table. 

Star in Qatar

Acuna has most recently been earning plaudits for Argentina in Qatar, where he has aided his national side to a first-placed group finish, despite a seismic loss in the opener to lowly Saudi Arabia. 

In that match, Acuna was one of the few candles not extinguished by the second-half wave of Arabian wind that sent La Albiceleste spinning, recording a rating of 7.1 off the bench as he forayed forwards and searched for openings. 

And with a performance that bred a 100% pass success rate, two big chances created, and 27 touches, the 31-year-old was in the very thick of the action, consequently earning a starting role in the following group matches against Mexico and Poland, with the South American giants winning both. 

It’s these stunning showings that have attracted interest from a train of clubs vying for his signature, with the blend of experience and explosive dribbling a worthy addition to any top-flight team across Europe. 

As per FBref, he ranks within the top 8% for passes completed across Europe, whilst ranking within the top 7% for successful dribbles, when compared to positional peers, whilst also contributing defensively for Sevilla this season with 1.9 tackles per match and 1.1 interceptions.

His rounded and refined arsenal has led to claims that he is “one of the best”, and with an achievable price tag of roughly £10m, Emery could receive the reunion he so desires in the coming months.

Having contributed with two goals and ten assists across 92 outings for the Andalusian side, the 46-cap Acuna will no doubt be enticed by the prospect of working under manager who boasts a consistent track record of success, with his particular skill set well-suited. 

But with the likes of Inter Milan, Emery's former team Villarreal, Europa League winners Eintracht Frankfurt, and Premier League midlands rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers all interested, Villa would to well to act swiftly, with conviction, to lure the whiz to Aston.