Real Betis are bidding farewell to Alex Moreno ahead of his £13 million move to Premier League outfit Aston Villa, legendary captain Joaquin hailing the left-back’s ‘extraordinary’ talents in quotes reported by El Desmarque.
There was considerable relief at the Estadio Benito Villamarin when Moreno decided to turn down Nottingham Forest following a summer of near-relentless speculation a few months ago.
The relentless 29-year-old was a huge part of Betis’ success in 2021/22; providing 10 goals and assists combined as Manuel Pellegrini’s side sealed European qualification while winning the Copa del Rey to end a trophy drought over two decades old.
It’s fitting, then, that his impending move to Villa Park has been greeted by an outpouring of affection, admiration and plentiful gratitude.
Aston Villa are about to bring in Alex Moreno from La Liga outfit Real Betis
“Here, he has left his mark,” says Joaquin, the evergreen 41-year-old. “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.
“He is a player with great performance,” adds president Angel Haro (Cadena Ser). “Now we are looking at the alternatives that we have on the table to replace the player.
“The coach (Pellegrini) is intelligent and understands the situation. He is going to be very important when it comes to replacing the player.”
Moreno joined Betis from Rayo Vallecano for a bargain £6 million back in 2019. Los Verdiblancos are therefore set to double their money; Aston Villa stumping up around £13 million.
Moreno, who will fight with Lucas Digne for a starting spot and could bring an early end to Ludwig Augustinsson’s Villa Park career, could sign a long-term deal until the summer of 2026 while trebling his £22,000-a-week wages.
According to The Mail, Moreno is now in England and could undergo a medical imminently.
We are waiting for the resolution,” sighs Betis’ £28 million striker Borja Iglesias. “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.”
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