Aston Villa are reported to be in pole position to sign Pervis Estupinan after AC Milan became prepared to part ways with the 27-year-old following just one season in Serie A. The Rossoneri have set a valuation of €18-20 million, with the Ecuador international now at the centre of a transfer battle that also includes Deportivo La Coruña.
Estupinan’s profile is easy to understand. He impressed in England during his spell at Brighton, then made 19 appearances in his debut season at San Siro and even scored the winning goal against Inter in the Derby della Madonnina. That is the kind of record that explains why clubs are moving quickly once Milan signalled that a sale could happen.
Why Aston Villa are pushing forward
The key detail here is that Aston Villa have already requested detailed information on Estupinan’s availability. That suggests more than casual interest. It suggests a club working on the move, weighing up whether he fits the next stage of Unai Emery’s squad building.
From Villa’s point of view, this is also about proven quality. Estupinan has already shown that he can cope with English football, which matters when clubs are trying to avoid guesswork in the market. If a player has already impressed in England, the adaptation risk is lower and the case for moving quickly becomes stronger.
Milan's valuation sets the tone
AC Milan’s stance is straightforward: they are willing to sell, but only on their terms. A price of €18-20 million is not a throwaway figure, and it gives the Rossoneri a clear starting point for negotiations after one season.
For Milan, the issue is not Estupinan’s ability. His 19 appearances and decisive goal against Inter show he offered more than just squad depth. The bigger question is whether the club believes the timing is right to move him on rather than build around him for longer.
Deportivo La Coruña enter the race
Deportivo La Coruña have also opened talks as they prepare for their return to La Liga, which adds another layer to the situation. Their involvement shows that Estupinan’s reputation is not limited to one market, even if Villa are said to be in the strongest position.
That makes the next stage of the story clear. Milan have set the price, Villa have shown their hand, and Deportivo La Coruña are now in the conversation. The interest is real, the valuation is known, and Estupinan’s next move could depend on which club is willing to act first.
