Villa chase Italian left‑back Ruggeri as Konsa exit looms

Aston Villa are poised to sign Italian left‑back Matteo Ruggeri from Atletico Madrid for around £15 million, a move driven by the imminent vacancy left by Lucas Digne’s expected departure to Paris Saint‑Germain, while the club also faces the possible loss of centre‑back Ezri Konsa.

The Ruggeri deal is reported to be worth about £15 million, with terms all but agreed between Villa and Atletico Madrid. The transfer would bring a left‑back with Serie A experience to the Premier League side.

Ezri Konsa, the 28‑year‑old England defender, has become a prime target for Arsenal, who have offered roughly half of Villa’s £60 million valuation. Co‑owner Nassef Sawiris expressed displeasure, and the squad appears resigned to the possible loss.

Senegal forward Nicolas Jackson remains on Villa’s radar, though manager Unai Emery has publicly downplayed interest. The club‑level admiration dates back to their time together at Villarreal, but UEFA rules deem permanent transfers within 45 days as swaps, which could block the move.

Johan Manzambi, Villa’s £54 million club‑record signing, is sidelined with a knee injury sustained at the World Cup and is unlikely to feature in the opening Premier League match against Brighton on August 23. His absence adds to the defensive challenges the club faces.

UEFA’s financial regulations have already forced Villa to lose Youri Tielemans and Morgan Rogers to Manchester United and Chelsea for a combined £152 million, tightening the balance sheet ahead of the new season. The Ruggeri signing would bolster the defence, provide Premier League exposure for the Italian, and help Villa meet the financial and sporting demands of competing on multiple fronts.

The club’s plans to expand Villa Park to a 50,000‑seat capacity aim to increase revenue, while the addition of Ruggeri offers a concrete step toward stabilising the squad after a turbulent window. Finalising the deal hinges on completing medicals and agreeing personal terms.