Aston Villa announce signing of DR Congo star Aaron Wan-Bissaka from West Ham

Aston Villa have completed a deal to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new season with the signing of DR Congo star Aaron Wan-Bissaka from West Ham United.

The 28-year-old defender joins Birmingham-based club on an initial loan deal for the 2026/27 season, with an option to make the deal permanent.

Wan-Bissaka’s arrival is expected to provide head coach Unai Emery with another experienced option at right-back as the club looks to build a competitive squad for the new campaign.

Emery considers the defender an important reinforcement for the flanks of Villa’s backline, with his defensive qualities and Premier League experience viewed as valuable assets to the team.

The former Manchester United defender spent the 2025/26 campaign at West Ham, where he featured 27 times across all competitions and contributed three assists.

His move to Aston Villa represents another significant step in his career and gives him the opportunity to continue playing at the highest level of English football.

Aston Villa will hope that his experience and consistency can help strengthen the team’s defensive structure as they prepare for the demands of the 2026/27 season.

The agreement also means that Wan-Bissaka’s temporary move is expected to become permanent once the conditions of the mandatory purchase clause are fulfilled, giving Villa the option to retain him beyond the upcoming campaign.

The defender is currently valued at €15 million, underlining his continued standing in the transfer market despite his move being initially structured as a loan.

Wan-Bissaka will now look to settle quickly into Emery’s system and make a strong impression as Aston Villa prepare for another demanding season.