Aston Villa have reportedly made a move to sign Atletico Madrid left back Matteo Ruggeri, as the Villans step up their search to replace Lucas Digne.
Digne, 33, who appeared in the majority of France's matches at the 2026 World Cup, looks set to rejoin French giants Paris Saint-Germain this summer.
As a result, Unai Emery's side will be in the market for a left back this summer, with Ian Maatsen the club's only current first team player in that position.
It has been widely reported that former Brighton and current AC Milan defender Pervis Estupinan was Villa's first choice to replace the Frenchman, however that move has stalled, with Ruben Amorim said to be keen to give the Ecuadorian the chance to impress in pre season.
Following this, Aston Villa are reportedly looking at other targets and, according to transfer guru Matteo Moretto, have made a move for Atletico Madrid's Italian defender Matteo Ruggeri.
Moretto states that the deal could happen as soon as within a "couple of hours", with Villa looking to complete a deal "immediately".
Ruggeri, 24, only joined Atleti from Atalanta last summer for a reported fee of €17m, but now could be set for a move to the Premier League.
The report also states that the decision is currently with the player, who is said to be weighing up his options, as Atletico look to secure more than the fee paid to sign him last season.
Standing at 6'2", Ruggeri would offer a completely different profile to Maatsen (5'10"), giving Emery the variety of options that he usually enjoys in his squad.
Prior to joining the La Liga side, the 24 year-old was viewed as one of Serie A's brightest talents, making over 100 appearances for Atalanta and assisting 10 goals.
Last season, Ruggeri was among Atletico's highest assisters in all competitions, proving seven goals for his teammates across 47 matches.
Aston Villa have two more pre season friendlies before their UEFA Super Cup contest with Paris Saint-Germain, which would explain their eagerness to secure a deal as soon as possible.
