Aston Villa Left-Back Set to Join La Liga Side on Free Transfer | OneFootball

Alex Moreno Set to Leave Aston Villa for Girona

The Athletic has reported that Alex Moreno is on the verge of completing a move from Aston Villa to Girona. After two and a half years in England, the Spanish full-back is preparing to return to La Liga with a deal that underscores both Villa’s evolving squad and Moreno’s desire for a fresh chapter.

According to the report, “The left-back will undergo his medical tomorrow ahead of signing a two-year contract on a free transfer, including a 40% sell-on clause for Villa.”

Photo IMAGO

Girona Secure Experienced Full-Back

Girona have acted decisively to strengthen their defensive options. Moreno, 32, arrives with extensive Premier League experience and a track record of consistency at the highest level. His versatility, able to operate either at full-back or further forward, makes him a strong fit for a side that continues to build on its impressive growth in Spain’s top flight.

Moreno has accepted reduced terms in order to accelerate the transfer, a sign of his determination to secure regular football again. Girona had shown interest earlier in the summer, with The Athletic revealing in July that an approach had been made after Moreno was left out of Villa’s pre-season tour to the United States. That decision, at the time, made clear he was not part of Unai Emery’s long-term plans.

Aston Villa’s Changing Left-Back Picture

For Villa, this transfer is shaped by depth and competition. With Lucas Digne and Ian Maatsen still in the squad, opportunities for Moreno became limited. Last season, Moreno spent time on loan at Nottingham Forest where he featured in 19 matches across all competitions, registering one assist and helping the side to a seventh-place finish in the Premier League.

Photo IMAGO

His earlier spell at Villa, however, had shown his value. Signed in January 2023 from Real Betis in a €15 million (£13.3m) deal, Moreno quickly became a regular under Emery. He appeared in 19 league games that season before adding 29 more appearances across all competitions in the following campaign, contributing to Villa’s top-four finish and Champions League qualification. He also featured in their run to the Conference League semi-finals.

Across his Villa career, Moreno played 48 matches, scoring three goals and providing three assists. Those numbers may not tell the full story of his energy and commitment, but they highlight his steady contribution.

Legacy and Fresh Start in La Liga

Before arriving in the Premier League, Moreno had already built an established career in Spain. His journey took him from Barcelona’s academy to Llagostera, Mallorca, Rayo Vallecano and Real Betis, where he made 122 appearances, scoring six goals and creating 14 assists. He was also part of the Betis squad that lifted the Copa del Rey in 2022, ending the club’s 17-year wait for a major trophy.

Girona will now benefit from a player with a wealth of top-level experience. For Villa, the 40 per cent sell-on clause ensures they maintain an interest in his future value while clearing space in a competitive squad.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Villa fans, Alex Moreno’s departure feels like the closing of a short but important chapter. He arrived in 2023 and immediately brought stability to the left side, often offering the energy and drive that gave Emery’s team attacking width. Many fans will remember his role in helping the club secure Champions League qualification, a milestone that confirmed Villa’s progress under Emery.

However, the reality is that competition has grown too fierce. With Digne and Maatsen still trusted for their experience, Moreno simply did not have a pathway to regular starts. The decision to allow him to leave on a free transfer, with a strong sell-on clause included, is pragmatic business.

Girona represents an ideal fit. They are ambitious in La Liga, with a style that should suit Moreno’s attacking instincts. For Villa fans, there will be a sense of gratitude rather than disappointment. He contributed when needed, gave the club depth in a crucial position and leaves having played a part in their return to Europe’s elite competition.

Ultimately, this is a deal that benefits all sides. Moreno gets the opportunity to play consistently again, Girona strengthen their squad with a proven performer, and Villa protect themselves financially while moving forward with their next phase.