Journalist says potential £40m Aston Villa summer exit could be a "win-win for everyone"

It would be ‘a shame’ for Aston Villa to lose defender Matty Cash amid speculation over his future, according to journalist Dean Jones.

Reigning Spanish champions Atletico Madrid have been heavily linked with a move for the 24-year-old in recent weeks and months as they continue to search for Kieran Trippier’s long-term heir.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano (as relayed by The Sun), Cash is still ‘top of the list’ for Diego Simeone’s charges ahead of the summer transfer window.

“I want to say again about Matty Cash and Atletico Madrid because it was already news in [January],” said Romano on his Here We Go podcast.

“But I wanted to say again because he’s still top of the list for Atletico Madrid as right-back. And so, it’s a serious, serious possibility for Atleti.”

It’s believed that Villa are set to demand between £30 million and £40m for the Poland international, who still has over three years remaining on his current contract.

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Since joining the Midlands outfit from boyhood club Nottingham Forest in September 2020, Cash has established himself as an accomplished Premier League player.

The attack-minded full-back has registered three goals and five assists in 57 top-flight appearances for Steven Gerrard’s charges, seemingly attracting the attention of Atleti along the way.

Although losing Cash would be a significant blow to Villa and their aspirations of making progress next term, the proceeds from his sale could be spent extremely wisely, allowing Philippe Coutinho to sign on a permanent basis.

The Brazilian arrived on a six-month loan deal from Barcelona in January that includes the option to buy for £33m,