Aston Villa are now battling Newcastle United in the race to sign a Serie A winner, who's available for just £26m this summer.
Unai Emery hits out at Premier League title claim
Whilst it was more dropped points for his side last time out, Unai Emery was left delighted with Aston Villa's point against Bournemouth. The Spaniard was likely outnumbered with that view, but chose to consider the context of the Villans' achievements so far this season instead of thinking about the Premier League title.
Emery told reporters at full-time: "We must feel very good. We must feel with 47 points very good, because now I can speak in front of you, you were telling us, me, you are a contender to win the Premier League.
"Ok, and now, after two months ago, everything I told you two months ago makes sense. Why? Because the Premier League is a fantastic league, a very difficult league, and we must compete, being a huge, huge commitment in everything to get it."
He then continued, saying: "How many points do they have?” he asked, and when reminded of Arsenal’s tally, added: “Now, the contender for the title should be City, Chelsea, Tottenham, Newcastle, Liverpool. Why? Find the information."
The information that Emery may be referring to could surround PSR. Aston Villa have been extremely limited on that front, but have still kicked on to earn breathing room in the top four.
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The Foxes are now only outside of the relegation zone on goal difference.
Whether Champions League qualification changes their financial situation remains to be seen. Rumours suggest that Villa have certainly got their eye on reinforcements, though.
The likes of Dean Huijsen have been linked with moves to Villa Park as of late and he's not the only impressive defender on their radar heading into a crucial summer transfer window.
Aston Villa racing to sign Carlos Augusto
According to reports in Italy, as relayed by TeamTalk, Aston Villa are now racing to sign Carlos Augusto from Inter Milan in an attempt to hijack Newcastle's move. The Magpies hold long-term interest, but the emergence of the Villans could yet burst their bubble.
The interest of those in Tyneside makes Champions League football all the more important. Augusto can play both left-back and centre-back and is available for just €30m (£26m).
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If he wants to keep playing among Europe's elite, then Villa should take full advantage. They can offer exactly that, whilst Newcastle continue to struggle.
Given that Lucas Digne is now 32 years old, Emery would also be wise to welcome an experienced Serie A winner, who is at the peak of his powers. The current Villa man handed the Spaniard a timely reminder that his best days may be over sooner rather than later at the weekend when Bournemouth's Rayan scored.
If the Augusto rumours are anything to go by, then a replacement may not be too far off at Aston Villa.