Aston Villa fans will love what Antonio Valencia once said about Pervis Estupinan as 'talks' begin
Aston Villa have opened talks to sign Ecuador international Pervis Estupinan as they seek a replacement for Lucas Digne.
The 28-year-old AC Milan left-back is seen as potential competition for Ian Maatsen if they can get a deal over the line.
This comes amid news that PSG are finalising a deal to sign Digne this summer transfer window.
The Champions League holders have activated the 32-year-old’s release clause, which is reportedly valued at under £10million.
However, if Villa can bring in Estupinan as a replacement, they could be in line for a substantial upgrade.
Former Manchester United captain, Antonio Valencia, once labelled the defender as the best left-back in the Premier League when he was playing for Brighton and Hove Albion.
Antonio Valencia once labelled Pervis Estupinan as the ‘Premier League’s best left-back’
Before his move to AC Milan last summer, Estupinan was a key player for Brighton in the Premier League.
The defender helped the club qualify for the Europa League and had the Seagulls continuously fighting for Europe.
As a result, Estupinan was subject to heavy praise from a number of people, including Valencia.
Speaking to FIFA via ESPN on 14 November 2023, the former Man United star could not hold back his praise for the defender.
He said: "For me, Pervis Estupinan is the best left-back in the Premier League and perhaps the best in the world.
“He's strong defensively, good with the ball, his crossing has improved, and he's very intelligent. He'll continue to grow and improve because he's a true professional."
While these quotes were almost three years back, it will still excite many of the Villa Park faithful.
Estupinan is clearly an experienced defender who Maatsen could potentially learn a lot from as he looks to establish himself as Villa’s main left-back.
Therefore, many will now be hoping that The Athletic’s report is accurate, and the Birmingham outfit can get a deal over the line.
How good was Estupinan last season?
According to Fotmob on 13 July, Estupinan had a solid season in the Serie A in the last campaign.
Overall, per 90 minutes, he was averaging, 0.09 goals, 0.09 assists, a 0.13 xA, 1.13 chances created, 1.30 tackles, 0.96 interceptions and 2.00 clearances in the Italian top-flight.
Therefore, he could prove to be a massive asset in both the Premier League and the Champions League for Villa in the 2026-27 campaign.
Nevertheless, it remains to be seen if the club can get a deal over the line for Estupinan in the coming weeks.