Atletico Madrid in talks to sign Matteo Ruggeri | OneFootball

Atletico Madrid are in advanced negotiations to sign Atalanta defender Matteo Ruggeri this summer, according to Marca.

The La Liga giants have turned their attention towards Ruggeri after failing to secure deals for primary left-back targets Andrew Robertson and Lucas Digne.

Los Rojiblancos have been prioritising a top-quality left-back this summer due to the potential departure of Reinildo Mandava.

A move for Theo Hernandez appeared to be on the cards, but Atletico withdrew from talks following AC Milan’s high demands.

Liverpool’s Robertson also emerged as a top target, but the Spanish giants were reluctant to pay a transfer fee for a player whose contract expires next summer.

Ruggeri appears to be the chosen one to reinforce their defence. The 22-year-old was instrumental in La Dea’s Europa League success in 2023/24 and third-place finish in Serie A last season.

Despite primarily functioning as a left wing-back under Gian Piero Gasperini, Ruggeri has also shown his quality playing as a centre-back.

This flexibility would help him become a key squad member for Atletico manager Diego Simeone.

The Italian international is a well-rounded player who stands out for his blistering pace, ball progression, high-volume crosses and defensive work rate.

Simeone tends to switch between 4-4-2 and 3-5-2 formations, and Ruggeri would thrive in those set-ups.

Atletico are keen on Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Cristian Romero, but a deal will not be possible for anything less than £60 million.

They are close to securing the signings of Johnny Cardoso and Alex Baena.