Brazilian midfielder Joao Gomes has completed a move from Wolverhampton Wanderers to Aston Villa for a reported fee of £35 million. The transfer was confirmed by both clubs on Friday, bringing an end to Gomes’ three-year spell at Molineux. He has signed a contract with Villa, though the length of the deal has not been disclosed.
Gomes, who has earned 10 caps for Brazil, arrives at Villa Park as a direct replacement for Youri Tielemans, who recently departed for Manchester United in a £36 million deal. The 23-year-old midfielder was a regular in Wolverhampton’s side, making 41 appearances across all competitions last season. His departure leaves a void in the Wolves midfield, though the club has yet to announce any immediate replacements.
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has been active in the transfer window, with Gomes representing the club’s third major signing of the summer. They have also secured the services of Modou Kéba Cissé from Lask for £5.5 million and Swiss prospect Johan Manzambi for a significant £60 million fee. These additions signal Villa’s ambition to build on their recent success.
Aston Villa enjoyed a remarkable 2023-24 season, culminating in a 3-0 victory over Fribourg in the Europa Conference League final in May. This triumph secured their qualification for the Champions League, marking a return to Europe’s elite club competition. Villa will begin their season with the UEFA Super Cup against Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain on August 12th.
The move to Aston Villa sees Gomes remain relatively local, with Wolverhampton situated in the Birmingham suburbs. The transfer provides Gomes with the opportunity to compete at the highest level in the Champions League, while Aston Villa bolster their midfield options ahead of a demanding season. This acquisition is expected to strengthen Villa’s ability to compete on multiple fronts.
