Major defensive overhaul: Aston Villa prepares a Premier League transfer swoop for DR Congo international defender

Aston Villa continues its ambitious efforts to bolster Unai Emery’s defensive line-up.

Details: According to renowned insider Fabrizio Romano, the Birmingham club plans to focus its main efforts on securing a new right-back immediately after officially completing the signing of Matteo Ruggeri.

The primary transfer target for the right side of defense is West Ham's Aaron Wan-Bissaka—Aston Villa’s interest in the DR Congo international is described as genuine and concrete.

In the near future, Villa are set to announce the signing of Italian left-back Matteo Ruggeri from Atletico Madrid, who is expected to fill the void on the left flank. Once that deal is finalized, the club will shift all attention to negotiations for Wan-Bissaka, aiming to create real competition on the right side of defense.

It’s worth noting that in the 2025/26 season, the 28-year-old defender made 25 appearances for West Ham in the Premier League, recording three assists. Renowned portal Transfermarkt currently values the player at 15 million euros.

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