Aston Villa have moved quickly to respond to the poor performance against Newcastle over the weekend.
The 5-1 defeat was a true humbling moment following a summer of positivity and hope at Villa.
But with the injury to Emi Buendia and this bad result, a signing was needed to raise spirits.
This is exactly what has been done as Fabrizio Romano all but confirms that Italy international Nicolo Zaniolo will join the club.
Tweeting, Romano gave his famous three word catchphrase, “here we go!” he confirmed, before adding:
“Verbal agreement in place on €27m (£23.2m) total package add-ons included with Gala — loan deal with buy option clause”.
He also adding that personal terms are already agreed with the Galatasary man wanting to join Unai Emery at Villa.
Zaniolo set for medical
It seems that the deal has a quick turnaround time, with the move expected to be completed by tomorrow.
Romano tweeting again said:
“Nicolò Zaniolo will be in Birmingham on Wednesday to undergo medical tests as Aston Villa player”.
Before correcting his earlier fee estimation to €30m (£25.8m) which will be an option within the loan-move however it could become mandatory if certain conditions are met.
Zaniolo will be a huge addition for Emery given the Italian’s wonderful talent with a football.
Where could he play?
Zaniolo is an attacking midfielder by trade and that is where he needs to be deployed.
Assuming a formation similar to last weekends, Moussa Diaby could be shifted out wide in place of Leon Bailey, allowing Zaniolo to play in his preferred position.
This is also where he is most dangerous and could hugely impact Villa’s attacking phases of play.
He is yet another addition to Villa’s already impressive midfield and could be a really shrewd piece of business at £25.8m.
