Newly promoted Aston Villa have completed the permanent signing of Anwar El Ghazi from Lille. The Dutchman signs a four-year deal at Villa Park, keeping him with the Villans until 2023.
Aston Villa Sign Anwar El Ghazi Permanently
He’s back! ?
We’re delighted to confirm @AElGhazi7 has signed on a permanent deal.https://t.co/Ul4YFczCBc#AVFC pic.twitter.com/VCUI5AfZcY
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) 10 June 2019
Loan Spell Made Permanent
Anwar El Ghazi has signed for Aston Villa on a permanent deal. The 24-year-old impressed heavily while on-loan from Lille last season.
The Villans returned to the top flight for the first time since their relegation in 2016 after beating Derby County in the play-off final at Wembley Stadium.
Anwar El Ghazi netted on Villa’s second Wembley appearance in as many seasons; John McGinn doubled the Midlands side’s lead in the second half.
The 24-year-old’s impressive performances led to many reports suggesting the Villans would exercise their option to turn the loan deal permanent.
Throughout his loan spell with Villa, El Ghazi netted six times and was seen as a player who can continue to develop.
The Dutchman, who is highly rated across European football, made 37 appearances for Villa last term.
Aston Villa boss, Dean Smith, expressed his delight at signing El Ghazi on a permanent deal.
“Anwar proved to everybody at Wembley how good a player he can be for Aston Villa,” he said.
“He’s ready for the step up to the Premier League and he’s a young player who has an awful lot of potential. It’s now my job and the job of the coaching staff and Anwar himself to fulfil the potential that he undoubtedly has.
“He’ll be a great addition to the squad for next season.”
El Ghazi has become the second signing of the summer as boss Smith prepares his squad for the Premier League. Jota recently joined the club as he completed a move from Second City rivals Birmingham.
The Villans are reportedly keeping tabs on Cardiff City goalkeeper as preparations for Villa’s return to the top flight continue.
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