Transfer Deadline Day: Aston Villa complete the signing of Yacouba Sylla

Aston Villa have completed the signing of French midfielder Yacouba Sylla from Clermont Foot for around a fee of £2million.

The 22-year-old has agreed a three-and-a-half- year deal with the Premier League side despite attracting interest from clubs in Spain, Italy and France.

Pending international clearance, Sylla is expected to go straight into Paul Lamberts side for Villa’s trip to Everton on Saturday.

“My first task will be to integrate myself with my new team-mates and to help those around me to grow and to build with them a strong team. I’m thrilled to be part of this.”

“I can’t wait to fight for the club and help the club to climb the table. I’m thrilled to be part of this. Playing at Villa Park will be unbelievable. It is a huge stadium with a great history and the crowd will be incredible.”

“I will be very proud when I put on the shirt and play my first game,” he said.

The French midfielder is boss Paul Lambert’s first signing of the transfer window.

“Yacouba will add a bit of steel into the midfield which will help the other lads in there,” Lambert said.

“I think he’ll do well. Hopefully, he adapts quickly and gives us something to complement the guys around him.

“Physically, he’s strong for it and, although he’ll be new to it, he’s raring to go.”