Lucas Digne on Atletico Madrid shortlist amid search for new left-back | OneFootball

Atletico Madrid have identified Aston Villa defender Lucas Digne as a potential target as they intensify their search for a new left-back ahead of the 2025/26 season, according to The Times.

Following a poor end to the previous campaign, Atletico are eager to bolster their squad in key positions, with left-back being one of the primary areas of concern and unsurprisingly so.

Making just 10 starts last time out, Reinildo Mandava has fallen down the pecking order, while Javi Galan has been unable to impress since his move from Celta Vigo.

Having failed to reach an agreement with AC Milan for Theo Hernandez, Los Colchoneros have turned their attention to Liverpool’s Andrew Robertson.

With Liverpool closing in on a deal to sign Milos Kerkez, Robertson could be set to depart Anfield for the Wanda Metropolitano, but Atletico are already lining up alternatives should a deal fail to come to fruition.

Digne has one year left on his current deal and, like Robertson, could be available for a cut-price deal should Villa choose to part ways.

Despite the acquisition of Ian Maatsen, Digne has remained the first-choice left-back under Unai Emery and started 28 Premier League games last season, with another four appearances off the bench.

Digne, who has enjoyed a solid spell at Aston Villa, fits the profile Atletico are looking for, as the 31-year-old combines defensive solidity with excellent attacking support, qualities that have seen him thrive in both the Premier League and Ligue 1.

In addition to Digne, Atletico are also monitoring other left-back options across Europe, but the Frenchman’s availability, experience and relatively affordable price tag make him an appealing choice.