Real Betis boss gives exciting update on Alex Moreno’s Aston Villa move

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Alex Moreno’s £13 million move to Premier League outfit Aston Villa is now ‘close’, Real Betis president Angel Haro tells Cope and Cadena Ser. 

On Tuesday, the former Espanyol left-back arrived in England to undergo medical tests before finalising his imminent switch to Villa Park (Daily Mail). Moreno, despite turning 29 over the summer, will reportedly sign a four-and-a-half year deal. 

He could even triple his wages. There are certainly financial and sporting reasons behind Moreno’s decision to walk away from Copa del Rey winners and Europa League challengers Real Betis in favour of an Aston Villa side dreaming of bigger things under Unai Emery. 

Aston Villa are ‘close’ to Alex Moreno deal with La Liga outfit Real Betis

“The offer for Alex came to us at the beginning of the year. It was an important offer for the player and for the club,” explains Haro. “A lot happens in football, but I think it will close in (the coming) hours.  

“There are a large number of players to replace him. For example, (we looked at Rayo Vallecano’s) Fran Garcia. We have a magnificent relationship with Rayo. (But) Fran is not going to come because he is happy at Rayo. I’ve already ruled out this one.

“We would like the replacement to arrive soon, because it is an important position. We’re talking about an important player, and we shouldn’t take too long.

“(Moreno’s departure is) close. It’s close. Very good for the player and relatively good for the club as well.”

The attack-minded left-back scored five goals and set up five more for Real Betis in 2021/22. He should thrive under Emery; a coach with a potent track record when it comes to getting the best out of attack-minded full-backs. Aleix Vidal, Benoit Tremoulinas, Alfonso Pedraza and more played arguably the best football of their careers under the former Arsenal, Villarreal and PSG coach. 

“Here, he has left his mark,” says Betis’ legendary captain Joaquin. “Alex, for us, has been a footballer with a tremendous capacity for growth. An extraordinary, affectionate companion. I’m going to miss him if he leaves.  

“That attacking ability… (Moreno is) a footballer who has improved a lot and who has made a huge leap in quality. If he leaves, I wish all the best for him.”