Aston Villa transfer news: Ludwig Augustinsson deal nears as terms for classy Sweden star are revealed
Aston Villa hope to complete the signing of Ludwig Augustinsson from Sevilla this week after Steven Gerrard’s side reached an agreement with the LaLiga side.
It’s been a busy summer so far for the Villans as Gerrard prepares for his first full season in charge. And he has shown his and the club’s intent by turning Philippe Coutinho’s loan move into a permanent signing. The Brazilian has since been followed by Boubacar Kamara, Diego Carlos and Robin Olsen.
However, it seems Gerrard is not yet done with a deal for experienced left-back Augustinsson closing in.
The 46-times capped Sweden star has been with Sevilla just one season, arriving from Werder Bremen in 2021. However, he has managed just 19 appearances in LaLiga, with 10 of those coming off the bench.
As such, they appear willing to move him on after just a year. And it seems they already have a replacement in mind with talks initiated for Tottenham’s Sergio Reguilon.
Now, according to Fabrizio Romano, Villa are closing on the signing of Augustinsson. He will sign on an initial season-long loan, while Villa will be given an option to make that permanent in summer 2023.
Talks will now be held with the player’s representatives over the potential move. And if all parties are in agreement, he will likely travel over to undergo a medical in the coming days.
We understand Villa will not pay a fee for the 28-year-old, but will cover the entirity of his wages until June 30, 2023.
Gerrard is moving for Augustinsson as he seeks cover and competition for Lucas Digne. Villa allowed Matt Targett to complete a permanent move to Newcastle this summer, leaving Villa a little light in the area.
Augustinsson deal a smart signing by Gerrard
Augustinsson primarily operates as a left-back, but is also confortable on the left of midfield.
The Sweden star might not be the big-name signing Aston Villa fans have become accustomed to under Gerrard. However, Ludwig Augustinsson is a classy operator and will provide the club with important cover and competition for two positions.
As such, the deal to bring him to the club on loan is a smart one. And moreso when you consider that Premier League clubs will be permitted five substitutes per game from the 2022/23 season onwards.
As such, having solid bench options is increasingly important going forwards.
With approaching 50 caps for his country, Augustinsson brings with him a wealth of experience too. Having played in Sweden, Denmark, Germany and Spain, he also comes with plenty of know-how.
As cover for Digne, his signing gives Gerrard two quality options to call upon to play at left-back.
Aston Villa have shown their ambition so far
After sealing a deal for Diego Carlos, Aston Villa aren’t showing any signs of slowing down in the transfer market.
Signing on a loan with an option to buy also gives Gerrard the chance to assess what the player is about. If he impresses, a permanent deal will easily be secured. And if not, Villa can send him back to where he came with not much of a financial hit.
