Aston Villa are edging closer to securing a deal for Matteo Ruggeri, the 24‑year‑old left‑back currently at Atlético Madrid, in a move that would cost roughly €20 million.
The Italian international has already agreed personal terms with the Premier League side, even though he has not travelled with Atlético for their pre‑season campaign.
The Digne Deal
Lucas Digne, a France international, is set to join Paris Saint‑Germain after Atlético triggered his £8 million release clause. He completed a medical two weeks ago and will finalize his contract once he returns from holiday.
Villa see Digne’s departure as an opportunity to reshape their back line, with Ian Maatsen, the Dutch full‑back who arrived in July 2024, earmarked as the long‑term successor.
Previous Targets and Market Moves
Earlier in the window Villa had chased Brighton & Hove Albion’s Pervis Estupinan, but a fee disagreement with AC Milan stalled the pursuit. The Serie A club had just appointed Ruben Amorim as head coach when the deal collapsed.
Ruggeri’s physical presence — standing 6‑foot‑2 and known for his defensive versatility — fits the club’s desire for a more robust left‑back, a quality they hope will complement Maatsen and solidify the defense.
The arrival of Alejandro Garnacho on the left flank adds another attacking dimension, prompting Villa to seek a defensively sound full‑back who can balance width with stability.
Ruggeri’s seven assists in 47 appearances for Atlético last season underline his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively, making him a ready‑made addition to the Premier League squad.