Aston Villa defender Pau Torres is on Al Nassr’s transfer shortlist, per Foot Mercato. This summer, the 28-year-old centre-back is a target for the Saudi Pro League side.

Since joining the club two seasons ago for £31.5 million, Torres has been a crucial player for Villa, making 73 appearances across all competitions.

Last term, he made 24 Premier League appearances for the Villains, winning 40% of his aerial and 66% of his ground duels.

He is playing four progressive passes and making 1.57 progressive carries per 90.

Torres, who earns £100k per week, is a crucial cog in defence for Villa boss Unai Emery, and it is hard to envision the club parting ways with him.

Emery hand-picked Torres and reportedly pushed for the club to sign the defender from Villarreal.

However, Al Nassr have been trying hard to give Cristiano Ronaldo the tools he needs to win his first title in the Middle East and could make a tempting offer.

Given Torres’ recurring injury concerns, Aston Villa may need to take a pragmatic view and sell Torres (Opinion).

Offloading one of them now, particularly if Al Nassr table a significant bid, could be a proactive way to maintain squad stability.

With European football on the horizon, Villa cannot afford to carry multiple high-risk players in such a critical position.

Reinvesting in a more durable, athletic centre-back could safeguard their defensive core and give Emery a more consistent presence over a demanding season.

If Torres’ sale helps fund that, it is a decision Villa should strongly consider, no matter how integral he once seemed.