Unai Emery, in a dark coat with a night sky behind him, raises his right hand and makes a thumbs-up gestureImage source, Press Association
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Unai Emery has been Aston Villa manager since October 2022

ByGuillem BalagueBBC Sport Columnist

Aston Villa head coach Unai Emery is close to agreeing a contract extension at the club - which will hand him even more responsibility for long-term development.

The Villa boss held talks with the hierarchy on Wednesday to discuss the club's future, with all parties keen on extending his time at Villa Park.

Emery would relish the opportunity to play an even bigger role in developing the club for the long term, with talks ongoing about the fine details, the finances, and the length of the new deal.