Aston Villa reportedly view Ian Maatsen as their long-term first-choice left-back as Lucas Digne closes in on a move to Paris Saint-Germain.
Jacob Tanswell reports that Villa have also opened talks to sign Pervis Estupiñán from AC Milan. The Ecuador international would replace Digne within Unai Emery’s squad rather than arrive ahead of Maatsen in the hierarchy.
PSG have reached a verbal agreement with Digne and plan to trigger a release clause worth less than €10m after France complete their World Cup campaign.
Villa want competition behind Maatsen
Villa signed Maatsen from Chelsea in 2024 with a long-term role in mind, but Digne’s consistency kept the Netherlands international from establishing himself as an undisputed starter.
The club now appear ready to hand Maatsen greater responsibility. His pace, attacking movement and ability to combine in advanced areas offer Emery a more dynamic option as Villa plan for the future.
However, Digne’s departure would leave Maatsen as the only established senior left-back. Villa therefore want Estupiñán to provide competition and cover during another season involving Premier League and European football.
ReadAstonVilla previously reported that Villa had made contact over a possible Estupiñán transfer. The 28-year-old worked under Emery at Villarreal and already knows the Premier League from his spell with Brighton.
TalkSPORT reports that Milan will consider offers between €10m and €15m plus add-ons. That price would allow Villa to replace Digne without committing a major part of their summer budget.
Estupiñán would not arrive as a guaranteed starter. Instead, Villa appear to view him as an experienced alternative who can challenge Maatsen and prevent Emery from losing depth on the left.
The plan offers Maatsen a clearer route into the team while maintaining the competition Villa need across a demanding season.
