Aston Villa are preparing an official offer to sign Marc Bernal, according to The Sun.
The English club is set to pay £30 million for the midfielder. Head coach Unai Emery has made the La Masia graduate his main transfer target. The club officials want to test Barcelona's resolve with a substantial bid.
Previously, the Spaniards rejected enquiries around £25 million. Barcelona consider the player untouchable.
The head coach of the Blaugrana, Hansi Flick, has publicly labelled him an excellent player.
Last September, the Spaniard extended his contract until 2029. The club did this intentionally to protect him from interest from other teams.
In the last season, Bernal featured in 33 matches across all competitions. He scored five goals and provided one assist, while Barcelona won La Liga.
The young midfielder has made a successful return to the pitch after a serious cruciate ligament injury. He plays with maturity beyond his years and fits perfectly into Emery's system.
It is expected that in England, the Spaniard will form a powerful partnership in midfield alongside João Gomes, Johan Manzambi, and Boubacar Kamara. The main question now is whether the £30 million offer will compel Barcelona to reconsider their stance.
