Atletico de Madrid defender Matteo Ruggeri is close to joining Aston Villa after agreeing personal terms on a contract that would run until 2031, according to transfer journalist Nicolo Schira.
The 24-year-old Italy international has reached an understanding with Aston Villa over the length of his proposed deal, with the move now believed to be at an advanced stage. The agreement concerns the player’s contract and represents a significant step towards his transfer to the Premier League club.
Ruggeri had attracted interest from several Italian clubs, but Aston Villa have emerged ahead of their rivals in the race for his signature. The English club’s position as the leading contender has put them on the brink of completing a deal for the Atletico de Madrid defender.
The full transfer has not been confirmed, and no details have been provided about a fee or the remaining stages of negotiations between the clubs. However, the reported agreement over personal terms means Ruggeri is now one step away from becoming an Aston Villa player.
The defender made 47 appearances for Atletico de Madrid in all competitions last season. During that campaign, he contributed seven assists.
Ruggeri’s performances have helped attract interest from both Aston Villa and clubs in Italy, although the “lions” have ultimately moved ahead of the competition. His proposed contract would keep him at Aston Villa until 2031, subject to the completion of the transfer.
The move would see Ruggeri leave Atletico de Madrid for Aston Villa after one season in which he featured extensively across all competitions. His record of 47 appearances and seven assists provides the statistical background to the interest in him, while the length of the proposed contract underlines Aston Villa’s intention to secure his services on a long-term basis.
For now, the key development is that Ruggeri and Aston Villa have agreed the terms of a future contract. With the defender reported to be close to making the switch, attention will turn to the finalisation of the transfer between Aston Villa and Atletico de Madrid.
