Aston Villa have announced the signing of Brazil international midfielder Joao Gomes from West Midlands rivals Wolves in a transfer reportedly valued at £38 million. The 25-year-old, who has earned 10 caps for his country, makes the switch to Villa Park following Wolves' relegation from the Premier League last season.
Gomes spent three-and-a-half years at Molineux, having joined from Brazilian club Flamengo. During his tenure with Wolves, he made 130 appearances, becoming a key figure in their midfield. Last season, he featured in 35 matches for the club, with his solitary goal coming in a surprise 2-0 victory over Aston Villa at Molineux in February.
Wolves' technical director, Matt Jackson, praised the departing midfielder, stating, “Joao deserves everything he gets from the game. He’s the type of professional that coaches love and players love, so he will go on to be the outstanding player that we know he is.” This sentiment underscores the high regard in which Gomes was held at his former club.
The arrival of Gomes at Aston Villa comes amidst significant squad changes for the Champions League contenders. It follows the confirmed departure of Youri Tielemans to Manchester United and precedes what is expected to be a substantial £117 million transfer of Morgan Rogers to Chelsea. These movements signal Villa's intent to reshape their midfield options ahead of a demanding season.
Gomes was not part of Brazil’s World Cup squad, which was eliminated by Norway in the round of 16. This means he joins Aston Villa well-rested and ready for pre-season training. The club is set to play their first friendly against Walsall on Tuesday, before their competitive campaign kicks off with a challenging UEFA Super Cup clash against Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain on 12 August. Their Premier League season begins away at Brighton on 23 August.