Aston Villa has completed the signing of Italy international Matteo Ruggeri from Atletico Madrid for a fee of €18m plus €6m in potential performance-related add-ons. The 24-year-old left-back has been a key player for Atletico Madrid, starting 39 games last season, including all the Champions League knock-out rounds that took them to the semi-final against Arsenal. Ruggeri's value has increased considerably on the transfer market, thanks to seven assists in 47 competitive appearances for the Colchoneros.
Background and Career
Ruggeri was purchased by Atletico Madrid from Atalanta in the summer of 2025 with an investment worth €17m. His impressive performances have caught the attention of several top clubs, and Aston Villa has now secured his services. The deal is expected to be completed soon, and Ruggeri will not be travelling with Diego Simeone's squad to South Korea.
Implications for Atletico Madrid
The sale of Ruggeri to Aston Villa will provide Atletico Madrid with the necessary funds to pursue other transfer targets. According to reports, Atletico Madrid could use the funds to beat Inter to Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero. The club is also set to sell Nahuel Molina to Roma, which will further boost their transfer budget.
Aston Villa's Transfer Strategy
The signing of Ruggeri is a significant coup for Aston Villa, and it is expected to have a major impact on their transfer strategy. The club will likely abandon their pursuit of Milan left-back Pervis Estupinan, as they have now filled the left-back position with Ruggeri. Aston Villa's transfer strategy has been focused on strengthening their squad with quality players, and the signing of Ruggeri is a testament to their ambition.
The signing of Matteo Ruggeri is a shrewd move by Aston Villa, as he brings a high level of quality and experience to the left-back position. With his impressive performances for Atletico Madrid, Ruggeri is expected to make an immediate impact at Villa Park. However, the transfer fee of €18m plus €6m in add-ons may be considered steep by some, and it remains to be seen whether Ruggeri will justify the investment.
The signing of Ruggeri will provide Aston Villa with a significant boost in their quest for a top-six finish in the Premier League. The club's transfer strategy has been focused on strengthening their squad with quality players, and the signing of Ruggeri is a testament to their ambition. Atletico Madrid, on the other hand, will use the funds from the sale to pursue other transfer targets, including Tottenham Hotspur defender Cristian Romero.
Frequently Asked Questions
Aston Villa paid €18m plus €6m in potential performance-related add-ons for Matteo Ruggeri
Matteo Ruggeri plays as a left-back
Matteo Ruggeri joined Aston Villa from Atletico Madrid