Aston Villa look to have identified their replacement for Youri Tielemans after the Belgian’s move to Manchester United was confirmed this week, with United triggering his £35m clause to prise him away from Villa Park.
Losing a midfielder of Tielemans’ quality has forced Unai Emery’s side back into the market, and all signs now point to another Premier League midfielder being lined up to fill the void.
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That player is Joao Gomes, with Villa understood to be closing in on a deal to sign the Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder in a move that could reach around £35m including add‑ons according to Birmingham Live.
Wolves’ relegation to the Championship has made a summer exit almost inevitable, and Villa have stepped to the front of the queue.
John Townley reports:
“Joao Gomes is leaving Wolves’ training camp in Portugal to complete a move to Aston Villa in a deal worth around £35 million, BirminghamLive can exclusively reveal.”
“Talks between the two clubs have progressed quickly, with Gomes saying his goodbyes to his teammates ahead of finalising a switch to Unai Emery’s side.”
“The 25-year-old is expected to undergo a medical in the coming days before signing his contract with Villa.”
Globo Esporte reported over the last weekend that Liverpool had made contact with the Brazilian’s entourage after his move to Atletico Madrid broke down, but it looks like Villa have moved decisively to secure their target.
Earlier in the window, Atletico Madrid agreed a €45m fee with Wolves and had already settled personal terms with the 25‑year‑old. However, that deal collapsed due to a reported fallout with super‑agent Jorge Mendes.
Despite Wolves’ relegation from the Premier League, Gomes was still named the club’s Player of the Season by both fans and teammates. He appeared in 41 of Wolves’ 44 games over the course of the campaign.