Villarreal’s Sergi Cardona Attracting Premier League Clubs Due to €15m Release Clause

Villarreal left-back Sergi Cardona may leave this summer as Premier League clubs show interest. His contract has a €15 million release clause.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Cardona joined Villarreal from Las Palmas on a free transfer in 2024. He quickly became a key player for the team. The 25-year-old Spaniard appeared in 35 LaLiga matches in the 2024/25 season, scoring one goal and providing seven assists as the team’s first-choice left-back. His contract, valid until June 2027, includes a €15 million release clause. This clause makes him an attractive target for clubs in need of a reliable full-back. AC Milan are interested in Cardona to replace the outgoing Theo Hernandez. Premier League clubs have been tracking Cardona since July. They could present Milan with competition in the transfer market.

TEAM PERFORMANCE AND PLAYER IMPACT

Villarreal finished 5th place in the 2024/25 LaLiga campaign qualifying for the Champions League. Cardona played a significant role in both the team’s defense and attack from the left flank. His seven assists made him one of the top creators at the club. His performances highlighted his contributions both going forward and at the back. Cardona’s consistency and attacking support contributed to Villarreal’s improved stability. However, the team fell short of securing direct Champions League qualification by a few points, although they will play the preliminary stages. Any interested club will view Cardona as an experienced, attack-oriented left-back who plays nearly every league minute for Villarreal.

WHAT’S NEXT?

With the transfer window in full swing, Villarreal could struggle to keep hold of Cardona. Premier League clubs and AC Milan might trigger his €15 million release clause. Milan, in particular, are motivated to sign Cardona due to the departure of their star left-back. His departure would disrupt Villarreal’s preseason preparations, as they look to strengthen and improve upon their performances in 2024/25. The club’s first match of the 2025/26 season is in August against Real Betis, who finished just above them in the table. If Cardona leaves, Villarreal would need to act quickly to replace him.