Aston Villa lead race for AC Milan defender Pervis Estupiñán

Aston Villa remain in pole position to sign Pervis Estupiñán, with AC Milan ready to part ways with the Ecuador international after just one season at San Siro.

The 27-year-old has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, but Villa are currently the only side to have taken concrete steps towards a deal. However, they now face fresh competition from Spain, where newly-promoted Deportivo La Coruña have entered the race.

Villa's interest in Estupiñán has gathered momentum in recent days.

The Premier League side have already requested detailed information on the defender's availability as they weigh up a formal offer. Milan are prepared to sanction a sale and are understood to value the left-back at around €18-20 million.

Having previously impressed during his spell at Brighton, Estupiñán remains highly regarded in England despite an underwhelming campaign in Serie A.

Villa believe his Premier League experience could make him an attractive option as they continue strengthening Ruben Amorim's squad.

While Aston Villa remain favourites, they are no longer the only club pushing for Estupiñán.

Deportivo La Coruña have also opened talks as they prepare for their return to La Liga, with the ambitious Spanish club keen to add proven top-flight experience to their squad.

Whether Deportivo can compete financially with Villa remains to be seen, but their interest gives Estupiñán another potential route away from Milan.

The decision to sell the Ecuadorian appears to have already been made.

After making only 19 appearances during his debut season, Estupiñán failed to establish himself as a regular starter, with his winning goal against Inter in the Derby della Madonnina standing out as one of the few highlights of an otherwise disappointing campaign.

Amorim has since instructed Milan's recruitment team to target a new wide player capable of operating on either flank, but the club would first like to generate funds through Estupiñán's sale before accelerating incoming business.

Aston Villa are expected to decide whether to follow up their initial enquiries with a formal bid, while Deportivo La Coruña continue exploring the conditions of a potential deal. With Milan actively planning for life without Estupiñán, the defender's future could be resolved quickly if one of the interested clubs meets the Rossoneri's valuation.

Would Pervis Estupiñán be a smart signing for Aston Villa, or should Unai Emery look elsewhere to strengthen his defence?