Aston Villa appear to be moving closer to completing a deal for Matteo Ruggeri after Atlético Madrid stepped up plans to replace the Italian.
The Spanish club reportedly intend to move for Racing Santander youngster Jorge Salinas once Ruggeri completes his switch to Villa Park.
Villa have already agreed a package worth €18million plus €6million in bonuses with Atlético for the 24-year-old left-back.
ReadAstonVilla reported on Sunday that talks were advancing after Ruggeri gave the move his approval and negotiations moved towards the final stages.
Matteo Ruggeri Aston Villa move edges closer
Sport Witness, citing Spanish newspaper Sport, now reports that Atlético are preparing for Ruggeri’s departure by pursuing Salinas.
The report says Atlético intend to sign the Spain Under-19 international once Ruggeri completes his move to Aston Villa.
That is another encouraging indication that the Spanish club expect the transfer to go through.
Villa have been searching for another left-back following Lucas Digne’s departure to Paris Saint-Germain, despite Ian Maatsen already being available to Unai Emery.
ReadAstonVilla analysed on Monday why another option is still required, with Emery keen to maintain competition and tactical flexibility on the left side of his defence.
Ruggeri can play as a conventional left-back, wing-back or on the left side of a defensive three, making him well suited to Emery’s flexible system.
There are still final steps to complete before Villa can announce their latest summer signing.
However, Atlético actively preparing to replace Ruggeri is another strong indication that his move to Villa Park is approaching its conclusion.
