Aston Villa remain in pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino, despite being turned down in January.

Villa boss Unai Emery is a big fan of the Spain international, formerly of Newcastle, but he was unable to lure him to Villa Park in the winter window, says Mundo Deportivo. But Villa's interest in the player is unaffected and Emery is keen to land Merino in the upcoming summer window.

The 26-year-old has a release clause of €60 million and has stated he is happy at La Real.

“I'm very happy here," Merino said. "I have an incredible history at La Real, I'm very happy with how my career is going here, and I want to focus on that."

The former Newcastle United midfielder's contract expires in 2025.