Lucas Digne should look to quit Aston Villa if latest Alejandro Balde rumours are true
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(Credit: Imago) Fri 27 March 2026 9:15, UK Lucas Digne’s time could be up at Aston Villa in the summer as rumours circulate that Alejandro Balde is being targeted. The Villa left-back has been a regular in Unai Emery’s starting XI this season, often rotating with Ian Maatsen for a spot in the lineup.However, Digne has been preferred and is considered to be Villa’s main left-back.Now, the 32-year-old could be set to depart the Birmingham outfit in the summer, with Barcelona’s Balde reportedly a target.Below, Football Insider has explored how an exciting deal for Balde could impact Villa’s squad. 🔄 Aston Villa Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on signings, departures, and contract news from the Aston Villa boardroom.
VISIT THE VILLA TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Aston Villa eye Alejandro BaldeAccording to Mundo Deportivo on 26 March, Villa, alongside Manchester United and Manchester City are eyeing Balde.The 22-year-old has been a regular at the club this season, with his attacking play particularly impressive.Alejandro Balde’s La Liga stats this seasonPer 90 minutesAssists 0.12Passing accuracy 91.8%Chances created1.24Successful dribbles1.18Touches in the opposition box2.37Possession won in final third0.53Balde has some great attacking stats. Credit: FotmobWhile Barcelona have no interest in selling the defender, a substantial offer could be considered if the player is willing to make the move.However, if Villa do win the race, it would surely be the end of Digne’s time at Villa Park.Digne is already 32 years old and is no doubt reaching the end of his career.
Therefore, Emery is more likely to favour keeping Maatsen over the Frenchman if Balde comes through the door.On top of this, Balde is far better in possession and would be a considerable upgrade on Villa’s current main left-back.Therefore, Digne’s time on the pitch would also be reduced, and he would likely push for a permanent exit too.Would Aston Villa be willing to part with Lucas Digne?Former Aston Villa scout Mick Brown exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Villa could entertain offers for Digne in the summer transfer window.This is down to his inconsistent performances so far this season, with the full-back being at fault for numerous goals.Digne is also reportedly open to a move away from Villa Park, which could help Emery secure Balde, as wages will be freed up.A new left-back is reportedly a priority as the manager looks to solve the issues in this position once and for all.However, it remains to be seen if Villa will be able to pull this off, with plenty of twists and turns expected in the summer transfer window. 🦁 ASTON VILLA INSIDER UPDATE 🦁 Get the inside track on the Villa Park dugout, transfer strategy, player wages, and technical leadership at Bodymoor Heath. Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from Villa Park.