Aston Villa’s summer transfer business could be about to gather serious momentum once again, with Unai Emery reportedly edging closer to strengthening one of the most important positions in his squad before the Premier League season gets underway.

After an ambitious summer of recruitment, Villa remain determined to ensure every area of the team is equipped to compete on multiple fronts. While attacking reinforcements have attracted plenty of headlines, attention has now shifted toward the left side of defence, where significant changes could soon take place.

Lucas Digne’s future has become increasingly uncertain, and any departure would leave Emery needing an experienced replacement capable of making an immediate impact.

That search has reportedly led Aston Villa to Atlético Madrid defender Matteo Ruggeri.

The Italian full-back only arrived in Spain last summer and enjoyed an encouraging first campaign, featuring regularly while adapting quickly to one of Europe’s most demanding tactical systems. His defensive consistency, ability to support attacks and physical presence made him an important option throughout the season.

However, football changes quickly.

Following Atlético’s activity in the transfer market, competition for places has intensified, leaving Ruggeri facing a far less certain role heading into the new campaign.

Villa have moved swiftly to take advantage.

Reports suggest discussions between the two clubs have progressed positively, with an agreement understood to be close after negotiations over a package worth up to €24 million. Although final details still need to be completed, there is growing confidence that the transfer could soon move into its final stages.

For Emery, the attraction is obvious.

Ruggeri combines defensive discipline with the athleticism required to thrive in the Premier League. Standing over six feet tall, he offers strength in aerial duels while also possessing the stamina to contribute at both ends of the pitch.

His versatility would also provide Villa with greater tactical flexibility.

The Italian is comfortable operating as a traditional full-back but has also shown he can perform effectively in systems using wing-backs or three central defenders. That adaptability aligns perfectly with Emery’s willingness to adjust formations depending on the opposition.

Equally important is his experience.

Despite still being only 24 years old, Ruggeri has already competed in major European competitions and developed under several highly respected coaches. That background suggests he possesses both the maturity and technical quality required to handle the demands of English football.

Villa’s interest has not gone unnoticed elsewhere.

Several clubs across Europe have monitored Ruggeri’s situation in recent months, recognising both his potential and long-term value. Yet Aston Villa appear determined to move decisively before rival interest complicates negotiations further.

Should the move be completed, Ruggeri would provide healthy competition alongside Ian Maatsen while also helping replace the experience that could leave the squad if Digne departs.

Creating depth across every position remains one of Emery’s biggest priorities.

Villa face another demanding season with domestic and European commitments placing significant pressure on the squad. Building quality competition rather than relying on a fixed starting eleven has become central to the manager’s long-term vision.

Ruggeri appears to fit that philosophy perfectly.

He is young enough to continue developing while already possessing the experience needed to contribute immediately. That balance makes him exactly the type of signing Villa have consistently targeted during Emery’s tenure.

Supporters have already witnessed an ambitious transfer window, but the club’s work is clearly not complete.

Strengthening the defensive unit could prove just as important as adding goals, particularly in a league where consistency often separates European qualification from mid-table finishes.

If negotiations reach a successful conclusion, Aston Villa will have secured another player entering his prime years with significant room for further improvement.

As the transfer window enters its decisive weeks, Emery continues assembling a squad capable of competing with England’s elite.

Landing Matteo Ruggeri would represent another major step toward that objective—and another clear signal that Aston Villa have no intention of slowing down their ambitious project.