Aston Villa have made a move to sign Atletico Madrid left-back Matteo Ruggeri, with Unai Emery’s side reportedly wanting to complete a deal immediately.
The move could now develop quickly, with the Italian considering Villa’s proposal and his decision expected to determine whether the transfer progresses.
According to Matteo Moretto and Marca, Ruggeri could leave Atletico in the coming hours despite only joining the Spanish club from Atalanta last summer. Villa have presented their offer to the 23-year-old and are now waiting for his response before attempting to push the transfer towards completion.
Atletico paid around €17million for Ruggeri and would expect to make a profit if they sanction his departure. Reports earlier this summer had already suggested the Spanish club were prepared to consider offers for the defender after his first season in Madrid.
Matteo Ruggeri Aston Villa move could develop quickly
Ruggeri would represent another option on the left side of Emery’s defence, an area Villa have been assessing throughout the summer. ReadAstonVilla reported in July that Ian Maatsen was viewed as the club’s long-term first-choice left-back, while Villa had also explored a deal for Pervis Estupiñán.
The latest development suggests the recruitment team have now identified Ruggeri as an alternative route. The Italian offers experience as both a left-back and wing-back, having developed in Atalanta’s system before moving to Atletico.
Moretto’s latest update suggests Villa do not want a prolonged negotiation and are ready to move immediately if Ruggeri gives the green light. Atletico’s willingness to generate a profit also leaves a clear route towards an agreement if the player decides he wants the move.
There is no indication yet that Ruggeri has accepted Villa’s proposal. For now, the next step rests with the defender, but this has moved beyond simple interest and could develop rapidly.
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