Aston Villa have today confirmed a deal for Lille, midfielder Idrissa Gueye, with the Senegalese international signing on a 4-year deal.
Gueye is 25-years old and joined Lille in 2008 from, Senegalese side, Diambars. Subsequently he spent 2 years with the Lille B team making 55 appearances scoring twice. In 2010, he made the step up to the full Lille side. That season he played with the likes of Eden Hazard, and Yohan Cabaye, as Lille clinched the title.
He has since went on to make 134 appearances for the Northern French side.
The Senegalese international is only 5 foot 8 inches in height but while he lacks in height for a holding midfielder, Gueye is dynamic and plays with the ball firmly at his feet, sublime technique, and raw energy makes him one of the most exciting transfers of the summer and at £9-million it is a rather good deal.
Tim Sherwood has suggested previously that he wants a solid figure to dictate the play in his midfield, Gueye certainly suits that bill. Playing in a holding role Gueye has shown at Lille his ability to break down attacks and play from it. Despite his defensive abilities in the past year, Gueye has played higher up the pitch for Lille showing his attack prowess.
Manager Tim Sherwood said: “I’m really pleased to have brought Idrissa on board.
“He’s been one of the best young midfielders in France for the last few seasons and there were a lot of teams trying to sign him this summer.
Last season was his most successful yet scoring 4 times in 40 appearances for Les Dogues as they finished Ligue 1 in 8th place. Gueye essentially glides around the pitch and suits the ‘Viera role’ that so many Premier League clubs look to find.
Les Dogues are in financial difficulty and will be happy to see Gueye leave. With interest from Southampton being reported it was important Villa sealed this deal. They couldn’t afford to miss out on him especially with the loss of Delph to Man City.
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