Real Betis striker Borja Iglesias is disappointed to see La Liga team-mate Alex Moreno close in on a £13 million move to Aston Villa, speaking to Radio Seville.
After the talented left-back rebuffed Nottingham Forest’s advances last summer – even after Steve Cooper’s side agreed terms with Betis – Los Verdiblancos boss Manuel Pellegrini went into the winter window confident of retaining Moreno’s services.
The 29-year-old, Pellegrini said just a few days ago, was ‘very happy’ in Andalusia.
Comments which now appear to have aged like a carton of milk left out in the Seville sun; Moreno closing in on a £13 million deal which will make him the first signing of the Unai Emery era.
‘Very happy’ or not, a potential move to one of England’s most storied and well-supported footballing institutions is obviously an opportunity Moreno is determined to grasp.
The former Espanyol ace was conspicuous by his absence too as Betis jetted out to Saudi Arabia to take part in the Spanish Super Cup. It seems he has already played his last game for the Copa del Rey holders. Who knows, his next outing might even come against Leeds United at Elland Road on Friday night.
Aston Villa are signing Alex Moreno from La Liga outfit Real Betis
“We are a bit waiting for the resolution,” says Iglesias, Betis’ £28 million Spain international centre-forward. “Whatever happens will be the best for everyone. At any moment, it can happen to any of us. Some leave and others come.
“I wish he would stay with us, but he we will understand (if he leaves). What is good for him will be good for everyone. He has worked hard at it.”
According to El Desmarque, Moreno is likely to treble his wages at Aston Villa; from a rumoured £22,000-a-week to around £70,000-a-week. Those accusing Moreno of chasing the money are wide of the mark, however. After all, the Catalan-born wideman rejected the chance to earn a substantial pay rise at the City Ground just a few months ago (The Athletic).
Perhaps it is the opportunity to work with a five-time Europa League-winning coach that twisted Moreno’s arm. Aston Villa, despite a largely underwhelming season, remain one of the most ambitious and deep-pocketed clubs in English football.
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