PSG eye surprise move for France & Aston Villa defender Lucas Digne as release clause is revealed

Lucas Digne is a target for European champions Paris Saint-Germain following his performances for France at the World Cup.

The Aston Villa left-back spent three years PSG from 2013-16 and is seen as an ideal alternative to Nuno Mendes – regarded as one of the world’s top full-backs.

Daily Mail Sport understands there is a clause in Digne’s contract which, if triggered, will allow him to discuss terms with PSG, although it is unclear at this stage what this clause is worth. Villa’s next official fixture is in the UEFA Super Cup against PSG in Salzburg on August 12.

Unai Emery was uncertain about Digne when he took over at Villa in autumn 2022 and quickly brought in Alex Moreno to play in his position.

Since then, Digne has adapted superbly to Emery’s demands, winning the battle with Ian Maatsen to start the biggest games and often winning praise from Emery for his attitude and application.

Though Emery would not want to lose Digne, he is 32 and one of the club’s higher earners, having joined for £25million four-and-a-half years ago, when Steven Gerrard was in charge.

Though Maatsen’s form has been inconsistent, he is only 24 and has the potential to become Villa’s regular first-choice at left-back.

Villa did not comment.