Lucas Digne, Unai Emery
(Credit: Imago, Breaking Media)
Villa News Speaking to Bryan King
Thu 19 June 2025 16:10, UK
Aston Villa are prepared to part ways with Lucas Digne as Unai Emery works to reshape his squad.
Digne slowly saw himself phased out of the first team last season following Ian Maatsen’s arrival.
Villa’s interest in left-back Adrien Truffert, who has now signed for Bournemouth, further demonstrates that the Villans are preparing for life without Digne, who turns 32 next month.
With a year left on his contract, the Midlands club could look to cash in this summer and will be assessing the latest development emerging from Spain.
Ian Maatsen
Maatsen’s arrival saw Digne feature less frequently last season (Credit: Imago)
Atletico Madrid are considering a move for Digne
As reported by Fabrizio Romano via X (16 June), Atletico Madrid are considering a move for Digne, should Diego Simeone’s side fail to sign Liverpool’s Andy Robertson.
Atletico have a history of raiding Premier League clubs for out-of-favour defenders and reinvigorating their careers, such as with César Azpilicueta and Kieran Trippier.
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Digne already has La Liga experience following his two-year spell at Barcelona, though the defender struggled to lock down a starting position with the Catalans.
However, this could be a move that benefits both parties, and ex-Villa scout Bryan King – speaking exclusively to Villa News – believes that Emery’s side would accept an offer of £12million for Digne.
“Digne is out of contract at the end of next season,” King said.
“Therefore, this is the time for Villa to move him on; otherwise, they’re not going to get any money for him. However, he is 31 years old, and we’re not talking about Harry Kane here; we’re talking about a left-back.
“As a result, I imagine that Villa would accept an offer of £12m, and I think that would be good value.”
🚨🔴⚪️ Atlético Madrid are also considering Lucas Digne as option at left back if Robertson deal doesn’t happen.
Atléti only want to pay small fee or get Robertson deal done on free transfer; Digne’s also on the shortlist, as @_pauljoyce reported today. pic.twitter.com/FsjdzrquX4
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 16, 2025
Atletico Madrid are interested in Digne
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Emery changing profile of fullbacks
Digne’s departure would leave Emery with just three recognised full-backs in Matty Cash, Maatsen, and Andrés García.
Cash has been a dependable presence for Villa and is an all-around solid player. However, the other two are more accomplished and technically gifted on the ball with a different athletic profile.
Emery is veering away from the profile of players such as Digne, who are slighter and better versed in crossing, and is looking to add players with more attacking prowess and direct running as he looks to adapt the way his team attacks next season.
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