Unai Emery Hints at Permanent Deal for Marco Asensio After Aston Villa's Champions League Triumph

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has expressed his satisfaction with Marco Asensio's performances and hinted at the possibility of securing the Spanish forward on a permanent deal. 

Speaking after Villa's commanding 3-0 victory over Club Brugge in the Champions League, Emery remarked, "It depends. Of course, we are happy with him. We are protecting him because he's not feeling 100%. He wanted to start the match, but I decided to protect him."

Asensio, who joined Aston Villa on loan from Paris Saint-Germain in January, has been in exceptional form. The 29-year-old forward has scored an impressive seven goals in just eight appearances for the club, including a brace in the recent match against Club Brugge. His contributions were instrumental in securing Villa's place in the Champions League quarter-finals with a 6-1 aggregate win.

Villa is reportedly exploring the possibility of making Asensio's move permanent. Discussions are ongoing with PSG, who are open to a transfer for a fee in the region of €15 million (£12.5 million). Asensio's seamless integration into the team and his goal-scoring prowess have made him a fan favorite at Villa Park.