Spaniards eye Prem duo

Villarreal have targeted Mario Melchiot and Josemi in their search for a new defender.

The Yellow Submarines managed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League for the coming season and are busy looking for new recruits.

Villarreal boss Manuel Pellegrini wants players who can cope with a long season, including European involvement.

Birmingham's Dutch defender Melchiot and Liverpool's Josemi (pictured) are the two names at the head of Pellegrini's list.

General manager of Villarreal, Jose Manuel Llaneza, says that initial contact has been made for the two targets.

"The contacts have been initiated in conjunction with the orders of the coach," said Llaneza.

"After the great success of the last season it is necessary to follow in the same way."

Josemi only arrived on Merseyside from Spain last summer, but his involvement for Rafa Benitez's side may be limited in the coming season.

Melchiot played a full part for Birmingham last term, but the lure of Champions League football could be the key to his signing should Villarreal go for the former Chelsea man.