Graham Hunter backs Aston Villa's pursuit of Adama Traore

Respected Spain-based journalist Graham Hunter has claimed that Aston Villa would be signing a "potentially exceptional" player if they manage to lure Barcelona's Adama Traore to the club this summer.

The Premier League club are believed to be close to securing the signing of the 19-year-old, with a three-year contract said to be on the table.

Barcelona, however, are expected to include a buy-back clause in the attacker's contract.

"Traore can be potentially exceptional... he is a beautiful talent and very exciting," Hunter told Sky Sports News.

It is understood that Villa will part with approximately £7m to sign the teenager, who has also been strongly linked with a move to Liverpool.