Aston Villa has made a significant move in the transfer market, securing a deal to sign Nice striker Evann Guessand. The 24-year-old Ivory Coast forward is set to join the Premier League club for an impressive £26m, with an additional £4.3m in add-ons.
Guessand had a remarkable season last term, scoring 12 goals and earning the title of player of the season as he helped propel Nice to fourth place in France's Ligue 1. His performance caught the attention of several clubs, including Crystal Palace. However, it is Aston Villa that has successfully secured his signature.
The Ivory Coast international is expected to undergo a medical at Villa on Wednesday before finalising his move. This signing marks Villa's first major acquisition of the summer and follows Yasin Ozcan from Kasimpasa and back-up goalkeeper Marco Bizot from Brest.
Filling the void left by Duran
Villa have been actively seeking striker options since Jhon Duran's departure to Saudi Arabia club Al-Nassr in January left them with just Ollie Watkins as their only senior centre-forward. Marcus Rashford spent the second half of last season at Villa on loan but has since joined Barcelona.
Guessand’s arrival will undoubtedly bolster their attacking options ahead of their Premier League campaign.
Guessand began his career through Nice’s youth ranks before signing a four-year contract last summer. He made his debut for Ivory Coast in June 2024 and has earned nine caps so far - marking him as one of Africa’s rising football stars.
New Premier League season
Villa finished sixth last season which qualified them for this year’s Europa League competition - adding another layer of excitement for fans. They will kick off their Premier League campaign at home against Newcastle United on Saturday, 16 August.
The addition of Guessand to the squad is a clear statement of intent from Villa as they look to build on last season's success and make a strong start in both domestic and European competitions. For sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts alike, this move adds an intriguing dynamic to the upcoming season.
