Aston Villa wanted to sign former Brighton left-back Pervis Estupinan in the summer

Ruben Amorim has confirmed that he blocked Pervis Estupinan from leaving AC Milan in the summer amid strong interest from Aston Villa.

Unai Emery wanted to sign Estupinan as a replacement for Lucas Digne, who joined Paris Saint-Germain after the French and European champions triggered his release clause.

Estupinan had previously worked with Emery at Villarreal and was open to joining Villa. However, following his appointment in June, Amorim wanted to work with the former Brighton left-back.

Instead, Villa signed Matteo Ruggeri from Atletico Madrid in a deal worth £17 million. Amorim has now explained the circumstances surrounding Estupinan's potential departure.

“In the transfer window, we had a list of clubs that wanted Estupinan. But I said no. So, I want the fans to know that it was my responsibility,” Amorim said.

The Ecuador international has struggled to impress Milan fans since joining in the summer of 2025.

“Even at other clubs, sometimes the fans don’t like certain players too much,” Amorim added. “We have to help Estupiñán, we have to help the fans understand who Estupinan is: and I can assure you that Estupiñán works really hard.

“So, I want the fans to know that it was my responsibility. He’s playing because I chose Estupinan, because I believe in him and I’m convinced he'll be truly important for our team.

“But I understood that feeling from the first game. We simply have to help Estupinan, because we are a team: if one of our teammates suffers because of this, the whole team suffers with him and stands by him.”