Aston Villa are closing in on the signing of Pervis Estupinan, with negotiations between the Midlands club and AC Milan now at an advanced stage. According to Football Italia, citing The Telegraph, Villa are confident of wrapping up the deal quickly as they look to bolster their squad ahead of a demanding campaign.
The Ecuadorian left-back only joined Milan last summer from Brighton & Hove Albion, but after a single season in Serie A, he appears set for a swift return to the Premier League. Villa manager Unai Emery has identified the 28-year-old as the perfect replacement for Lucas Digne, whose imminent transfer to Paris Saint-Germain would leave a void on the left side of defence.
Why Villa Want Estupinan
With Digne expected to complete his move to the French capital in the coming days, Emery is determined to have a new left-back in place for the start of pre-season. Estupinan, who previously impressed at Brighton under Roberto De Zerbi, is seen as a ready-made solution. His pace, attacking instincts, and experience in both the Premier League and in Europe make him an attractive option for a Villa side that will compete in the Champions League next term.
Villa’s recruitment team have moved swiftly, and sources indicate a fee has been broadly agreed. While the exact figures remain undisclosed, it is believed Milan are willing to accept a deal that would allow them to recoup a significant portion of the €20m they paid Brighton a year ago.
Estupinan’s Brief Milan Stint
Estupinan arrived at San Siro with a solid reputation from England’s south coast, but he struggled to adapt to Italian football. He made just 24 appearances across all competitions in 2025/26, often failing to replicate his best form. The highlight came in March when he scored in the Derby della Madonnina against Inter, but such moments were rare. Overall, he never convinced manager Stefano Pioli or the supporters, and a summer exit has always looked likely.
Milan’s Financial Foothold
For Milan, the sale is pragmatic. Moving Estupinan off the books frees up funds that can be reinvested in other areas—chiefly a new central defender and a box-to-box midfielder. The Rossoneri are monitoring several left-back options across Europe, and they will not sign off on the exit until a suitable replacement is lined up.
Player Profile: Pervis Estupinan
Age: 28
Position: Left-back
Previous clubs: Watford, Villarreal, Brighton, Milan
International caps: 38 for Ecuador
What Happens Next?
The deal is expected to be finalised shortly, with only minor details to be resolved. Villa want the player to travel for a medical and join the squad’s pre-season training camp within the next week. For Estupinan, it represents an opportunity to revive his career after a disappointing year in Italy, while Villa gain a proven Premier League performer who can slot straight into Emery’s system.
If all goes to plan, Estupinan could make his Villa debut in their pre-season opener against Brentford on 4 August. The transfer would also signal Villa’s intent to build on last season’s fifth-place finish and make a serious impact at home and abroad.