Aston Villa have completed the signing of Ivorian forward Evann Guessand from Ligue 1 side Nice in a deal worth €30m, with a further €5m potentially payable in bonuses.
The 24-year-old arrives at Villa Park after an impressive campaign in France, where he scored 13 goals and registered 10 assists in 42 appearances last season.
Known primarily as a centre-forward, Guessand also offers versatility on the flanks, adding depth and dynamism to Unai Emery’s attacking options.
The Premier League club confirmed the transfer in an official statement on Friday, though details regarding the length of his contract remain undisclosed.
Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano was among the first to report the financial terms of the deal, highlighting the substantial investment Villa have made in a player who has steadily risen through the European football ranks.
Guessand’s departure marks the end of his three-year spell at Nice, where he established himself as a reliable goal threat and creative outlet.
His ability to link play, stretch defences, and finish clinically has made him a sought-after talent, attracting interest from clubs across Europe before Villa secured his signature.
For the Ivorian international, the move to England represents both a new challenge and an opportunity to prove himself in one of the most competitive leagues in world football.
His arrival comes as Villa look to strengthen their squad ahead of a demanding 2025–26 season, with domestic ambitions and European competition on the horizon.
Guessand is expected to join pre-season training immediately and could make his debut in the opening weeks of the campaign.
Supporters will be eager to see how his technical skill, pace, and versatility translate to the Premier League stage.
While Aston Villa have not disclosed the duration of the contract, the size of the transfer fee and the club’s current trajectory suggest they view Guessand as a key long-term investment.
His combination of creativity, strength, and finishing ability will provide Emery with an additional attacking dimension as the club seeks to build on recent successes.
The signing continues Villa’s recent trend of targeting players in their prime who can make an instant impact while offering future potential.
For Guessand, the challenge now lies in adapting to English football and justifying the faith placed in him — a task that, judging by his recent form, he will approach with confidence.
