Aston Villa are moving closer to completing a deal for Matteo Ruggeri, with the Atletico Madrid defender already in Birmingham as the final formalities of his transfer are resolved.
Spanish outlet AS reported that Ruggeri travelled to Birmingham last week and is waiting to complete the remaining steps before becoming a Villa player. The development represents a significant progression from earlier in August, when Atletico had accepted Villa’s proposal but the player was still considering his options.
The Guardian has since reported that Villa expect to complete the £17million signing in the coming days, strengthening the expectation that Unai Emery is close to adding another defender before the Premier League opener against Brighton.
Matteo Ruggeri Aston Villa move reaches final stage
Ruggeri spent only one season with Atletico after arriving from Atalanta, but still made 47 appearances in all competitions.
AS says his departure is now expected, while Atletico have already strengthened the same position with Alejandro Grimaldo. Earlier reporting from the Spanish outlet suggested Villa’s package could eventually rise towards €25m depending on variables.
For Villa, the transfer would address an obvious vacancy.
Lucas Digne has already left Villa’s left-back department after agreeing his move to Paris Saint-Germain, leaving Ian Maatsen as Emery’s senior option in the position.
Ruggeri would immediately restore competition and give the Villa manager a different profile. Atletico describe the Italian as a left-back with strong crossing ability and significant stamina, attributes which fit the demands Emery places on his wide defenders.
There is still a reason for caution.
Villa have not officially announced the transfer, so the remaining formalities still need to be completed before Ruggeri can be considered an Aston Villa player.
But this is no longer simply another report of interest.
The offer has been accepted, Ruggeri has travelled to Birmingham and Villa are now expected to complete a deal worth around £17m.
After weeks of searching for Digne’s replacement, Emery appears close to getting one.
