Aston Villa hint at new deal for Unai Emery amid Manchester United speculation

Villa have hinted at a longer stay for boss Unai Emery beyond his current contract, which runs until 2029.​

​In a statement on the club’s social media channels last night, Villa said there were ‘positive discussions establishing a clear commitment beyond 2029’ under the leadership of the Spaniard.

Less than 24 hours after a 3-0 Champions League defeat at Barcelona on Tuesday, Villa posted a picture of Emery – who has been the subject of speculation regarding the hot-seat at Manchester United – shaking hands with chairman and co-owner Nassef Sawiris, alongside key men Robert Olabe and Daniel Vidagany.

Villa, who take on United at Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon, said a working meeting was held to lay the long-term foundations for the club.

It added the meeting established a ‘clear commitment beyond 2029’.

The statement read: "Aston Villa held an important working meeting to plan the club's future and lay the foundations for its long-term sporting and institutional project.

“The meeting brought together Nassef Sawiris, the club's chairman and Unai Emery alongside president of football operations Roberto Olabe and director of football operations Damián Vidagany.

“The discussions focused on jointly planning the club's long-term strategic direction, with positive discussions establishing a clear commitment beyond 2029 for the joint development of the club under the sporting leadership of Unai Emery based on the shared ambitions and common goal to reach excellency and keep growing during the next years.

“The objective is clear: to build an ambitious, competitive Aston Villa capable of taking on the biggest challenges and achievements.”