DEAL ACCEPTED! Aston Villa Set Premier League Ablaze as They Close in on £30.5m Deal for Electric Nice Striker Evann Guessand — Medicals Imminent, Emery’s Attack Just Got Deadlier!
Aston Villa are making serious waves in the summer transfer market with the imminent arrival of Evann Guessand, the highly-rated 23-year-old striker from OGC Nice
, in a sensational £30.5 million deal. With only medicals pending, this high-profile signing signals Unai Emery’s intent to push the Villans even further up the Premier League table and into Europe’s elite competition.
This move is not just about strengthening the squad — it’s a loud message to the Premier League and the continent: Aston Villa mean business.
—
🔥 Who is Evann Guessand?
Evann Guessand is a French-Ivorian forward known for his explosive pace, sharp movement, and instinctive finishing. A product of the Nice academy, Guessand has emerged as one of Ligue 1’s most exciting attacking prospects over the past two seasons. Last season, he scored 12 goals and provided 6 assists in all competitions — helping Nice secure European qualification.
Standing at 6 feet 2 inches, Guessand brings a mix of physical presence and flair, capable of playing both as a central striker and on the wings. His dynamic style fits perfectly into Emery’s high-intensity attacking philosophy.
—
🚨 Inside the Deal
Reports confirm that Aston Villa and OGC Nice have agreed a fee of £30.5 million, with personal terms already settled between the club and the player. Guessand is expected in Birmingham within days to complete his medical and sign a long-term contract.
This deal marks one of Villa’s most ambitious moves this summer and reflects their growing ambition under Emery and the club’s owners.
Sources close to the club say that Guessand had multiple suitors across Europe, including Bundesliga and Serie A clubs, but was “won over” by Unai Emery’s vision and the opportunity to play in the Premier League.
—
🎯 Why Guessand?
Unai Emery has been searching for a forward who offers versatility, athleticism, and end product. Guessand ticks every box. With Ollie Watkins leading the line and Leon Bailey and Moussa Diaby providing width, Villa now add a striker who can rotate across the frontline, press aggressively, and deliver goals when it counts.
Villa’s current setup occasionally struggled to break down compact defenses last season. Guessand’s direct running, ability to stretch the backline, and keen eye for goal will give Villa a much-needed cutting edge.
—
🔍 Tactical Fit
Guessand is likely to feature as either a second striker in a 4-4-2 system or as a wide forward in Emery’s preferred 4-2-3-1. His ability to drop deep and link play also adds more tactical flexibility.
In Ligue 1, Guessand averaged 1.8 successful dribbles per game, created over 30 key chances, and completed 85% of his passes in the final third — an elite-level stat line for a forward his age.
Emery is known for maximizing the potential of young attackers, and under his guidance, Guessand could take a giant leap forward.
—
🏆 Villa’s Ambitions Just Got Bigger
Last season, Aston Villa surprised many by finishing in a European spot, playing smart, disciplined football under Unai Emery. But Emery isn’t satisfied with just participation — his target is to challenge for Champions League qualification and a domestic trophy.
Guessand’s signing is the latest in a series of intelligent and impactful additions that reflect this ambition. With players like Youri Tielemans, Pau Torres, and Diaby already part of the setup, Villa now boast a squad that can compete with the best.
The club’s board has backed Emery with the funds and freedom to shape the team in his image — and Guessand is a perfect piece in that puzzle.
—
💬 What They’re Saying
Unai Emery (expected statement):
“We are delighted to welcome Evann. He is a player with great potential, hunger, and the ability to make a difference in the final third. His profile fits perfectly with how we want to play.”
Fan reaction:
Aston Villa fans have flooded social media with excitement, with hashtags like #GuessandToVilla and #UTV trending. Many fans are calling him the “missing piece” in the attack.
Former teammate (anonymous):
“Evann has always been fearless. He loves the big stage, and he’s ready for the Premier League. Aston Villa are getting a top-class player.”
—
📉 Potential Risks
No transfer comes without questions. Guessand, though supremely talented, will be making a jump from Ligue 1 to the Premier League, a transition that has troubled many forwards. He’ll need time to adapt to the pace and physicality of English football.
Also, the £30.5m price tag will bring pressure. But Villa’s track record with player development and their supportive environment may give him the best chance of thriving.
—
🔮 What Next?
If Guessand completes his medical and signs before the weekend, he could be available for Villa’s opening Premier League fixture. Emery may choose to ease him in, but fans will be hoping to see a glimpse of their new weapon soon.
This transfer also raises questions about other attackers in the squad. Will Jhon Durán or Bertrand Traoré see reduced minutes or consider moves elsewhere?
More importantly, the signing of Guessand could be a statement piece in attracting future talents to Villa Park.
—
✍️ Final Thoughts
The signing of Evann Guessand is more than a smart move — it’s a declaration. Aston Villa are not here to make up the numbers. They’re building a side ready to disrupt the top six, and Guessand is the latest weapon in that charge.
With medicals imminent and Villa Park buzzing, fans have every reason to be excited. If Guessand delivers on his promise, the £30.5m could look like a bargain in the seasons to come.
Welcome to the Premier League, Evann Guessand — Villa are ready, and so is the roar of the Holte End.