'Flattered': Villarreal defender opens up on Aston Villa interest amid reported Unai Emery Real Madrid visit

The Villarreal man, who featured under Villa boss Unai Emery while he was in charge of the La Liga side, became a strong target for the Spaniard and Villa in the winter window.

The ex-Spurs man, who had only just returned from a lengthy injury absence, found himself at the centre of speculation surrounding a return to the Premier League under his former boss.

Despite talks between the two sides, nothing materialised and he remained a Villarreal player.

Recent reports in Spain have claimed Villa may make a move for him again in the summer - and this weekend it was reported that Emery was in the stands as Foyth netted an early goal in his side's 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid.

Foyth addressed his January links to Villa Park in an interview with Spanish outlet AS, and explained how he learned a lot during his time under Emery, and has been flattered by the Spanish manager's obvious interest in bringing him to the Premier League.

The defender said: "I had disconnected a bit during the Christmas break, but I saw that there was talk of that possibility. I know Villarreal and Aston Villa spoke, but only up to that point.

“I learned a lot from Unai; I became more mature and a better footballer. 

"I was surprised that they were interested in me almost without playing. I thought it was strange, since I’d been practically blank for a year. That interest shows the confidence Unai has in me, and I’m flattered.

“Right now, all I’m thinking about is Villarreal. I don’t know what will happen in the summer. I don’t know if offers will come in for me, if the club will be interested in selling me or renewing my contract. My dream is to stay for many years."