Tottenham and Aston Villa were close rivals for the majority of last season in the race for a Champions League place, and the two clubs may do battle again this summer as they look to sign a highly-rated free agent to add depth to their defences.
![Aston Villa](https://www.spurs-web.com/static/uploads/1/2024/02/aston-villa0-scaled.jpg)
Hermoso still has no home
Having come to the end of his contract with Atletico Madrid this summer, Mario Hermoso would probably have expected to find a new club pretty quickly. But, that has not been the case.
The 29-year-old is still without a club, but that could be about to change. That’s according to Area Napoli, who suggest Hermoso has plenty of clubs looking at him, with Spurs and Villa mentioned as potential suitors.
Napoli are thought to be keen, but the player is growing tired of waiting for an offer to come. Meanwhile, Chelsea are also believed to be in the mix.
Despite Atletico’s best efforts to keep hold of Hermoso, the player himself was determined to move on and find a new challenge elsewhere. The Spaniard had even travelled to Italy to discuss a switch to Napoli but it still hasn’t come to fruition.
It is thought Hermoso is not demanding a big signing-on fee and could be a top addition to the Spurs or Villa defence if either club can get the deal sorted.
![Atletico Madrid](https://www.spurs-web.com/static/uploads/1/2024/05/atletico-madrid4r-scaled.jpg)
What does he offer?
Hermoso has played in his native Spain throughout his whole career, turning out for Real Madrid, Valladolid, and Espanyol before joining Atletico in 2019.
He made 45 appearances in all competitions last season, scoring two goals and registering two assists as he covered across the back four.
Spurs Web Opinion
Hermoso is a top player, and would add real depth and quality and experience to our backline.
I don’t think we absolutely need him, but if a player like this becomes available, especially for free, I think that’s something you have to look at getting done.
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