Chief executive Keith Wyness: Aston Villa in talks to buy foreign clubs
Incoming chief executive Keith Wyness has confirmed Tony Xia is in active discussions to buy other clubs as the new owner aims to make Villa a global force.
Clubs in India, the USA, Australia and China are thought to have been identified as potential franchises as Xia looks to replicate the success of Manchester City.
Several franchises operate under the City Football Group banner including New York City in the MLS and Melbourne City in Australia's A-League. Wyness said: "It's similar. The idea is to have a comprehensive pool of talent and abilities to take players up through different stages of club experience.
"Depending on their age, development, talent. Give yourself that opportunity to monitor the talent very closely wherever they are.
"It won't be announced this week but we're in active discussions that's all I can say. Every club has different factors but we have identified a number and we are in discussions."
Xia hopes to make Villa the most popular club in China and Wyness, whose appointment is expected to be approved by the Football League later this week, wants to make the most of their marketing potential in the Far East.
He said: "
We've got an opportunity to be the best in the business."
New manager Roberto Di Matteo has meanwhile told Jack Grealish he still has a future at Villa Park.
But Di Matteo said: "I think he is a talented boy and I think he has a future here."
