adminAston Villa have agreed in principle with Atlético Madrid to sign Italian defender Matteo Ruggeri for a package worth up to €24 million, as reported by MARCA. The deal is structured with an €18m fixed fee plus an additional €6m in performance-related add-ons.
With left-back Lucas Digne nearing a switch to Paris Saint-Germain, Unai Emery has made the left defensive flank an urgent priority. Villa initially explored a move for AC Milan’s Pervis Estupiñán, but those talks stalled, leading the Europa League holders to turn their attention to Ruggeri.
The 24-year-old Italy international joined Atlético from Atalanta just last summer for €17m. In his debut Spanish campaign, he made 47 appearances and registered seven assists under Diego Simeone.
However, Atlético’s recent capture of Alejandro Grimaldo from Bayer Leverkusen has pushed Ruggeri down the pecking order, and the club—keen to turn a quick profit and trim their squad—were open to selling once Villa made their move.
For Villa, Ruggeri offers a skill set that balances Ian Maatsen’s attacking tendencies. At 1.87m, the former Atalanta youth product brings physical presence, defensive reliability, and aerial strength.
He also adds valuable European pedigree, having won the UEFA Europa League during his time in Bergamo—experience that will serve Villa well in a demanding continental schedule.
The final obstacle remains agreeing personal terms with the player. Although Juventus and Roma have both tracked his situation, Ruggeri is leaning toward accepting Villa’s offer for a Premier League test under Emery.
If the player gives his final green light, he will become Villa’s latest summer signing, joining Modou Keba Cisse, Johan Manzambi, Alejandro Garnacho, and João Gomes.
admin
