Leon Goretzka joins Aston Villa on free transfer

Aston Villa have confirmed the signing of Leon Goretzka on a free transfer, according to Ben Jacobs. The German international arrives at Villa Park as a free agent to bolster Unai Emery’s midfield options. The deal was reportedly finalised last week with the player’s agency, ROOF.

The move represents a significant coup for the Midlands club. According to Fabrizio Romano, Goretzka was specifically “wanted by Unai Emery” to add experience to the squad. The transfer has been officially confirmed by the club, marking a busy period of activity at Villa Park.

Villa are currently managing several major outgoings alongside this arrival. Al Hilal have agreed a deal to sign Ollie Watkins for a fee worth €58.4m plus add-ons, according to Fabrizio Romano. Additionally, Ipswich Town have reached an agreement to sign Tammy Abraham on a straight loan, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The deal

Fee: Free transfer (Ben Jacobs)
Stage: Official and confirmed (Fabrizio Romano)
Agency: ROOF (Fabrizio Romano)

To replace the departing Watkins, Villa are working on a deal for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson. The package is worth up to £65m, according to David Ornstein. Jackson has undergone a medical, but personal terms are still being finalised, according to Florian Plettenberg.

SPORF FACTFILE

Leon Goretzka

Age	31
Position	Central Midfield
Nationality	Germany
Current club	Bayern Munich

What happens next

Goretzka will now integrate into Unai Emery’s first-team squad immediately. The club will focus on finalising the personal terms for Nicolas Jackson to ensure he is available for the upcoming fixture against Arsenal. Meanwhile, Ollie Watkins is expected to travel to Saudi Arabia this week to complete his move to Al Hilal.

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