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Aston Villa stalwart with 138 appearances could depart for just £10m this summer as European giant swoops in
Atletico Madrid Eye Move for Key Aston Villa Defender Lucas Digne
Aston Villa are bracing for a difficult summer transfer window, one likely shaped more by departures than new arrivals as they work to stay within the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
The situation is reminiscent of Newcastle United’s financial dilemma in 2024, which led to the sales of Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh.
According to The Athletic, Villa need to raise at least £15 million by June 30, potentially forcing the club to part with at least one senior player.
Villa have already made a major sale this year—offloading Jhon Duran for around £70 million in January.
While they aim to retain key players like Morgan Rogers, Ollie Watkins, and Youri Tielemans to support next season’s Champions League ambitions, they may be unable to keep hold of everyone.
One name increasingly linked with an exit is Lucas Digne. Football Insider reports that La Liga giants Atletico Madrid are showing strong interest in the experienced left-back.
Atletico Madrid Interested in Signing Lucas Digne
Atletico Madrid are reportedly preparing a move for Digne, who joined Villa from Everton in January 2022 for a reported £25 million.
The French international has been a key figure at the club, playing a vital role in recent successes—including a top-four Premier League finish, a Champions League quarter-final appearance, and an FA Cup semi-final run.
The 31-year-old has featured 138 times for Villa, including 45 appearances in all competitions last season.
Known for his forward runs, precise deliveries, and solid defensive work, Digne also poses a threat from set pieces.
However, with only a year remaining on his contract, Villa may be tempted to sell if the right offer comes in.
Reports suggest Atletico could begin negotiations with a bid in the region of £8 million, potentially rising to £10 million if needed.
It’s also believed Digne has held discussions with the Spanish side regarding potential wages should the move materialize.
He has previous La Liga experience with Barcelona (2016–2018), where he won a league title and two Copa del Rey trophies.
Could Villa Let Digne Go?
Current speculation points to either Lucas Digne or goalkeeper Emi Martinez being sold to help Villa meet PSR obligations.
Martinez, who has been a standout performer over the past five seasons, has reportedly shown interest in a move to Manchester United—despite their disappointing 15th-place finish and failure to qualify for European competition.
Meanwhile, Digne’s potential exit may be influenced by the rise of young Dutch full-back Ian Maatsen, who impressed late in the season.
Should Villa decide to promote Maatsen to the starting lineup, they may view this summer as the right time to cash in on Digne.
