Aston Villa have moved into pole position for Matteo Ruggeri, with reports from Spain saying the club have an agreement in principle with Atletico Madrid. The reported package could rise to €25m. The move still depends on Ruggeri giving final approval, and he is expected not to travel to Korea.
The agreement with Atletico Madrid
Ruben Uria told teamtalk.com that there is an “agreement in principle between Atlético de Madrid and Aston Villa for the transfer of Ruggeri for a total package, between fixed amounts and bonuses, of 25 M€.” He added that the agreement between the English club and the Italian player still needs to be finalised.
That is the key distinction. Villa and Atletico appear aligned on the fee structure, but the personal side is still open.
The figure matters too. The package is reported at €25m, which is not a small punt for a player who has become a regular part of Atletico’s side.
Ruggeri’s output and profile
Ruggeri has seven assists in 47 appearances for Atletico Madrid, and he started 39 of 47 competitive games last season. For a left-back, that is a decent attacking return and a sign he has not been drifting in and out of the team.
Luciano Spalletti said Ruggeri “has continuity, quality and has earned this opportunity through his performances.” Gian Piero Gasperini went even further, saying he “has improved enormously and this season has shown that he can play at a very high level.”
That is the part Villa are buying into. Lucas Digne remains a useful reference point for the role, but Ruggeri looks like a player who can offer end product as well as steady minutes on the left side.
For now, though, the story is still incomplete. Villa have the agreement in place, Atletico are prepared to do business, and the transfer only moves from likely to official if Ruggeri gives the final yes.
Written by Jack Mercer with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 5 outlets. How we work →
