Matteo Ruggeri deal, Joao Palhinha talks and Ezri Konsa rumours

Aston Villa appear to have made progress in their pursuit of Atletico Madrid left-back Matteo Ruggeri, with reports suggesting the player has given the ‘green light’ to a move. The Italian full-back, currently owned by Atalanta but on loan at Atletico, would provide competition for Lucas Digne and Álex Moreno.

Villa’s director of football Damian Vidagany has broken cover to confirm the club’s interest in Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha. In comments to the Birmingham Mail, Vidagany described the Portuguese international as a “perfect fit” for Unai Emery’s system, though negotiations with Fulham are understood to be complex given their £50m valuation.

Elsewhere, former Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor has warned about Arsenal’s reported interest in Ezri Konsa, suggesting the defender would be “impossible to replace” if sold. The 26-year-old has developed into one of Villa’s most consistent performers under Emery.

In pre-season action, Joao Gomes impressed during Villa’s 2-1 loss to Bayern Munich, while forward Evann Guessand struggled to make an impact. He was described as “still finding his feet” by observers.

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