Aston Villa could be forced to sell two key players even if they qualify for the Champions League

Aston Villa could be forced to sell two key players this summer even if they manage to qualify for the Champions League.

Villa, like several Premier League clubs, are on high alert for breaching Financial Fair Play regulations.

Earlier this season, Everton received a 10-point deduction which has since been reduced to six for breaking profit and sustainability rules.

Many clubs are treading a thin line and Villa may need to sell some of their star players in order to fund their ambitions for the summer transfer window, as per The Mail.

Two names that have been mentioned are Jacob Ramsey and Douglas Luiz with Newcastle United and Arsenal rumoured to be interested.

They have both played a key role in Villa's surprise battle for qualification to Europe's premier competition this season.

Boss Unai Emery revealed in January that whilst they are going to work within the rules they must not lose their potential.

"We are going to work with respect to the rules. However, we must be sure we do not lose our potential as a team even if we have to sell some players," he explained.

"It can be dangerous when you sell players just to have money. It can be difficult to replace them while remaining successful."

Villa currently sit fourth in the Premier League table ahead of Tottenham Hotspur. Five teams could qualify for next season's Champions League as a bonus spot could be awarded depending on the league's coefficient ranking.

If the club hold on and do manage to qualify it will make their life a lot easier when trying to attract players in the summer.

The extra revenue generated from playing in the competition will also allow them greater leeway in terms of spending.

However, as Emery said, selling their stars to rivals could hurt them next season.