Aston Villa are considering a surprise move to bring in Sergio Ramos to shore up a fragile defense after a poor start to the season, with reports out of Spain suggesting talks are progressing quickly.
according to fichayesThe 40-year-old Spanish centre-back is in advanced talks over a possible free transfer to Villa Park, which would mark his first spell in England’s top flight.
Aston Villa in talks to sign Sergio Ramos
Ramos has not played for any club since ending his spell with Monterrey in Mexico in December 2025, where he made 34 appearances and scored eight goals.
Despite months of independent training, the experienced leader is eager to return to competitive football.
He has been linked with a move to Manchester United this summer, with Newcastle also reportedly interested.
While a summer move never materialized, reports now suggest the Villa boss is keen on bringing him in and plans to undergo a medical next week.
Aston Villa’s defense needs reinforcements
The reported interest in Ramos comes as Villa deal with major defensive issues.
Unai Emery’s side have endured a difficult start to the season, with their defensive weaknesses exposed in the defeat to Nottingham Forest.
Injuries during the game further complicated the situation, with Paulo Torres forced off in the first half with hamstring discomfort, followed by Ian Maatson with an ankle injury.
Villa also lost Ezri Konsa following his move to Arsenal, leaving Emery with fewer defensive options.
Therefore, if the deal can be completed, the potential arrival of Ramos will provide Villa with an experienced option at the heart of the defence.
Can Aston Villa sign Sergio Ramos outside the transfer window?
As the Premier League transfer window has closed, Villa are unable to make standard signings at this stage.
However, Ramos is currently a free agent, meaning a transfer outside the transfer window is still possible, subject to Premier League registration rules and Villa having a squad spot available.
The reported talks therefore offer Emery a potential opportunity to add an experienced defender without having to wait until the January transfer window.
Ramos could be closer to a shock Premier League move to Aston Villa if reported medical results go ahead next week.