Aston Villa are set to strengthen their defence with the signing of Matteo Ruggeri, after reaching an agreement with Atletico Madrid for the Italian left-back. According to reports, the Premier League club will pay a fixed €18 million, with a further €6 million in performance-related add-ons. The move comes just one year after Atletico signed Ruggeri from Atalanta, with the Spanish club now prepared to cash in as they reshape Diego Simeone’s squad ahead of the new season.
Why Are Atletico Madrid Selling Matteo Ruggeri?
Ruggeri enjoyed an impressive debut campaign in Spain after joining Atletico in the summer of 2025 for around €17 million. The 24-year-old established himself as a regular starter, making 47 appearances in all competitions and contributing seven assists. He also featured in 39 starts, including every Champions League knockout fixture as Atletico reached the semi-finals.
Despite those impressive performances, Atletico appear willing to sanction his departure as they look to generate funds for other transfer targets. Reports suggest the proceeds from Ruggeri’s sale, together with the expected transfer of Nahuel Molina to Roma, could help finance a move for Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero, who has also attracted interest from Inter Milan.
Ruggeri is not expected to travel with Atletico’s squad for their pre-season tour of South Korea, signalling that the transfer is inching closer to its final stages. Although personal terms with Aston Villa are still to be completed, no major obstacles are anticipated.
What Does the Transfer Mean for Aston Villa?
For Aston Villa, Ruggeri’s arrival adds proven quality and experience at left-back. The Italy international impressed with his attacking contribution in La Liga and Europe, making him an attractive option for Unai Emery as Villa prepare for another demanding campaign.
The deal is also expected to end Villa’s pursuit of AC Milan full-back Pervis Estupiñán, with Ruggeri now identified as the club’s preferred solution in that position.
If the remaining formalities are completed as expected, Ruggeri will become another significant addition to Aston Villa’s squad, while Atletico Madrid will move one step closer to funding the next phase of their summer rebuild.
