Aston Villa must strengthen at left-back as Lucas Digne moves closer to joining Paris Saint-Germain.
The leading Aston Villa left-back targets offer different solutions, from Premier League experience to long-term potential.
PSG have reached an agreement with Digne and plan to trigger the release clause in his contract. His departure would leave Ian Maatsen as Unai Emery’s only established senior option in the position.
Villa have already opened talks for Pervis Estupiñán. However, new AC Milan manager Ruben Amorim wants to assess the Ecuador international before allowing him to leave.
Four Aston Villa left-back targets to consider
Pervis Estupiñán
Estupiñán remains the most advanced option because Villa have already discussed a possible deal with Milan.
The 28-year-old previously played under Emery at Villarreal and later made more than 100 Brighton appearances. He knows the Premier League and can provide attacking width from a deeper position.
Milan signed Estupiñán in 2025, but he started only 13 Serie A matches during his first season. The Italian club had been willing to consider a sale before Amorim requested more time to assess his squad.
ReadAstonVilla reported that the Pervis Estupiñán transfer had been delayed by Amorim. The talks have not collapsed, although Villa must now wait for Milan’s final decision.
El Hadji Malick Diouf
El Hadji Malick Diouf would offer a younger option with recent Premier League experience.
The 21-year-old recorded five assists during his first season with West Ham. He also showed the physical strength required to defend aggressively and support attacks from the left. His official West Ham profile confirms his productive start after arriving from Slavia Prague.
A deal would be difficult. West Ham have reportedly rejected an approach from Brentford and informed interested clubs that Diouf is not for sale.
Villa would probably need to make a substantial offer to change that position. West Ham also have little reason to strengthen a Premier League rival unless Diouf pushes to leave.
Joaquin Seys
Joaquin Seys offers flexibility and considerable development potential.
The 21-year-old can play on either side of defence despite being naturally left-footed. He gained Champions League experience with Club Brugge and has already faced Villa in European competition.
Seys progressed through the Belgian club’s academy before establishing himself in the senior squad. His Club Brugge profile highlights his development from the club’s youth system.
However, his age and potential could produce a significant asking price. Arsenal and Manchester United have also been linked, so Villa may face competition if Club Brugge decide to sell.
David Raum
David Raum would provide experience at the highest level.
The Germany international captains RB Leipzig and has developed into one of the Bundesliga club’s most productive wide defenders. He recorded three goals and seven assists across 30 league appearances last season.
Raum turns 29 during the coming campaign, so Villa would receive a ready-made player rather than a long-term project. His experience in European competition could also help Emery during Villa’s Champions League return.
The financial conditions would decide whether a move becomes realistic. Leipzig may demand a considerable fee for their captain, even with his contract moving towards its final stages.
Villa decision depends on role and price
Villa are preparing for Digne’s exit after PSG reached an agreement with the defender. Maatsen remains the long-term first choice, so any arrival must be comfortable competing for minutes rather than expecting to start every match.
Estupiñán offers familiarity with Emery and established Premier League experience. Diouf would bring energy and resale potential, but West Ham’s stance creates a major obstacle.
Seys could cover both full-back positions and develop alongside Villa’s younger signings. Raum would add experience, leadership and immediate Champions League pedigree.
Villa’s choice will depend on Milan’s Estupiñán decision, the available budget and the role offered behind Maatsen. The club cannot afford to enter the new season without reliable cover after losing Digne.
