Aston Villa Pushes for Matteo Ruggeri After Digne Exit

Aston Villa are accelerating efforts to sign Italian international defender Matteo Ruggeri from Atletico Madrid, with a potential deal now hinging on the player's decision. The Premier League club is seeking a swift conclusion to the transfer as they prepare for the imminent departure of veteran left-back Lucas Digne to Paris Saint-Germain.

Digne is expected to finalize an 8 million pound move to PSG after completing a medical two weeks ago and returning from holiday. The 33-year-old French international's exit creates an urgent need for Villa to reinforce their defensive options. While Ian Maatsen remains at the club and is considered part of manager Unai Emery's long-term plans, Villa have been actively pursuing additional competition for the left-back position.

Villa's pursuit has now focused decisively on Ruggeri, a 24-year-old Italy international. According to reports, the club has made a formal offer and aims to complete the signing imminently. The operation advanced on Tuesday, August 4, after Ruggeri's agents met with Atletico Madrid director Mateu Alemany at the club's training base. Following that meeting, Ruggeri was notably excluded from the first-choice training...