With the attention on the nation and most supporter’s now largely upon that of their national sides at the European Championships, Villa continue to go about transfer business at pace.
BJORN ENGELS
The 26 year old Belgian departs Villa after just a two season stint.
Engels, who made the switch to Villa Park following the Wembley Playoff Final victory over Derby County, failed to establish himself in Dean Smith’s plans.
Indeed, the centre-half was arguably not just a victim of frequent lengthy injury layoffs, but also the meteoric rise of Ezri Konsa. Konsa’s development saw Engels’ initially promising partnership with Mings take a backseat, with the versatile Kortney Hause also leapfrogging him in the process.
Engels’ will join Royal Antwerp for an undisclosed fee.
Embed from Getty ImagesEmile Smith Rowe
Villa made an audacious £25 million bid for promising Arsenal midfield Emile Smith Rowe.
In yet another demonstration of the powershift in the domestic game, Villa are once more testing the resolve of sides whom the hierarchy seek to elevate the club beyond.
Whilst Villa’s valuation of Rowe certainly raises eyebrows, targeting Arsenal is perhaps less of a surprise. The Gunners are a team that Villa asset-stripped last term, signing the outstanding Emi Martinez in what must be regarded as one of the least resisted deals in modern transfer history.
Embed from Getty ImagesIN OTHER NEWS
Ashley Young has completed an intriguing return to Villa Park, a decade after he left for Manchester United. Now 35, Young returns with Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup, Europa League and Serie A winners medals to his name.
Young joins on a free transfer and has signed a one year deal at the club.
Embed from Getty ImagesEmiliano Buendia
Villa have of course already added 24 year old Argentine Emi Buendia.
Buendia was a player linked repeatedly with a move to Villa last season, with the club making him a club-record signing from Norwich City.
He joins on a five year deal, having either scored or assisted 31 goals last term.
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I think the new (and potential) signings are fantastic, but have to assume they have been secretly advised of Villa’s intentions for Jack. If they believe they are joining a team including Jack, it will inevitably cause bad feeling if he leaves! Not ideal!