Aston Villa are reportedly ready to battle Manchester United for the signature of Spain and Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simon next summer.

The Lowdown: Simon key for club and country

The Spaniard is arguably one of the standout 'keepers in Europe at the moment, excelling in a ball-playing style but impressing in his all-round game, too.

Simon played all four games for Spain at the 2022 World Cup, while at club level, he has made 14 starts in La Liga for Bilbao so far this season.

A new report now suggests that a Premier League switch could be on the cards, however, which is where Villa come into play.

The Latest: Villa in the mix

According to a report from Spain [via Caught Offside], Unai Emery and Villa are keen on signing a goalkeeper at the end of the season, with 25 year-old Simon identified as a target.

The same applies with United, however, so it could end up being a fierce battle to snap him up.

The report claims a Villa transfer would be 'surprising', given the other areas of their squad in need of strengthening.

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The Verdict: Could he replace Martinez?

In truth, the only way this transfer rumour makes sense from a Villa perspective is if Emiliano Martinez is leaving the club next summer, which would be a blow.

There have been rumours regarding a rift between the current Villans No.1 and Emery, dating back to their Arsenal days together, which could partly explain the interest in Simon.

If there is no issue and Martinez plans on staying, however, it feels impossible for Emery to have two top-class' keepers in his squad and keep them both happy. It should be one or the other, with both excellent options.