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Tottenham-linked Atletico Madrid defender could join Aston Villa. Tottenham Hotspur have shown ambition in the transfer window, signing as many as six players. Yet, they are not done, with Roberto De Zerbi eyeing attacking reinforcements now. Well, that hasn’t stopped Spurs from being linked with defenders. Marcos Senesi and Jan Paul van Hecke have arrived to strengthen the centre-back ranks, while experienced left-back Andy Robertson has been snapped up on a free transfer to compete with Destiny Udogie. Regardless of currently having four full-backs in the squad, the Lilywhites reportedly saw their enquiry for Atletico Madrid left-back Matteo Ruggeri rebuffed in July. Matteo Ruggeri reaches agreement with Aston Villa Now, according to a report from TEAMtalk, Aston Villa have turned their attention to Matteo Ruggeri to replace Lucas Digne. They have secured an agreement with Atletico Madrid for the signing of the 24-year-old left-back. Ruggeri moved to Atletico Madrid last summer from Atalanta, and he made 47 appearances in his debut season in Spanish football. The Italian impressed with his technical ability, physicality, versatility and work rate. Despite his success, Atletico Madrid wants to sell the left-back to fund a move for Tottenham centre-back Cristian Romero. Inter Milan have been in talks with Spurs for the signing of Romero in recent days, but Atletico Madrid are trying to hijack a transfer now. Los Rojiblancos have been long-term admirers of the Argentina international, and manager Diego Simeone wants to bring in his compatriot this summer. And the sale of Ruggeri to Aston Villa would bring home the funds for the Spanish club to spend on the 2026 World Cup finalist. Ruggeri’s move to Aston Villa could benefit Tottenham Tottenham are well-stocked at full-back. Djed Spence has been linked with a move away from N17, and should he depart, De Zerbi may push the club to sign a replacement to back up Pedro Porro. There is no urgent need for a new left-back, especially after Robertson’s arrival. Thus, a move for Ruggeri makes no sense. However, the Atalanta man joining Aston Villa would help Atletico Madrid to fund a move for Romero. Tottenham and Inter Milan have a €40 million agreement in place, but Romero is yet to give his approval. Should Atletico firmly press with their plans to sign Romero and he approves a move, Spurs will be in a position to ask for over €40 million. All in all, Ruggeri moving to Villa might end up boosting Tottenham’s chances of offloading Romero quickly.