Aston Villa Are Likely To Land This Atletico Madrid Defender: Good Signing For Emery? | OneFootball

In a recent report, Sabah mentioned that Aston Villa are likely to land Atletico Madrid defender Mario Hermoso this summer. It has been claimed that the Villans are in pole position to sign the Spanish centre-half in the upcoming transfer window.

Hermoso has been a solid presence for Diego Simeone’s side on the defensive end of the field during this campaign. The Spanish talent has played in 40 matches for his current employers this season, scoring two goals and grabbing two assists across multiple competitions.

The 28-year-old has been a rock at the back based on his average of 1.5 tackles, 1.1 interceptions and 2.8 clearances per game in La Liga. He has also been accurate when distributing the ball from inside his half after completing 87.2% of his attempted passes in the Spanish top flight (stats via whoscored).

Hermoso’s current deal at the Wanda Metropolitano will run out at the end of this campaign. Therefore, the Villans could potentially acquire his services on a free transfer in the summer.

DORTMUND, GERMANY – APRIL 16: Mario Hermoso of Athletico Madrid gestures during the UEFA Champions League quarter-final second leg match between Borussia Dortmund and Atletico Madrid at Signal Iduna Park on April 16, 2024 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images)

Will Hermoso Be A Good Signing For Aston Villa Boss Unai Emery?

Hermoso is a tough-tackling defender who can time his challenges well to earn possession back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t hesitate to clear the danger when the opposition are on the offensive and excels at playing his way out from the back. Standing at 1.84m, Hermoso can be a strong presence in the air as well.

The Spain international is primarily a centre-back but can also fill in as a left-back if told to do so. We can expect him to add more bite and steel to Aston Villa boss Unai Emery’s defence. Hermoso has what it takes to challenge for a regular starting spot at Villa Park in the coming seasons.

At 28, Hermoso is playing in his prime which makes him a worthy target for the Villans to consider this summer. He could help the West Midlands club compete across all fronts in the future. With all things considered, Hermoso is currently on an expiring contract and would be a great signing for Aston Villa to pull off on a free transfer at the end of this campaign.