Aston Villa have reached a verbal agreement with OGC Nice for the transfer of Ivorian striker Evann Guessand in a deal worth €30 million plus €5 million in add-ons. The 24-year-old forward has been authorized by Nice to travel for his medical test and contract signing, with both procedures scheduled for Wednesday.
The transfer ends Villa’s quiet summer transfer window and provides Unai Emery with the attacking reinforcement he has been seeking. Guessand becomes the club’s most expensive signing of the current window, eclipsing their previous additions as they prepare for another Champions League campaign.
Villa moved decisively to secure Guessand after learning of Crystal Palace’s interest in the striker. The Birmingham club were prepared to outbid their Premier League rivals and ultimately succeeded in convincing both Nice and the player to complete the switch to Villa Park.
Palace had been monitoring Guessand throughout the summer but were unable to match Villa’s financial package. The Eagles’ hesitation allowed Villa to step in and conclude negotiations within a matter of days.
Arsenal and West Ham United had also previously shown interest in the versatile forward, but neither club pursued their initial inquiries with concrete offers. Villa’s Champions League qualification proved a decisive factor in attracting Guessand to the Midlands.
Player Profile and Statistics
Guessand enjoyed an impressive 2024/25 season with Nice, contributing 12 goals and nine assists across 33 appearances in all competitions. His productivity in front of goal caught the attention of multiple Premier League clubs throughout the campaign.
The striker stands at 5’11” and possesses the physical attributes to adapt quickly to English football. His pace and movement in the final third align with Emery’s tactical preferences for mobile attacking players who can operate across the front line.
Born in France but representing Ivory Coast at international level, Guessand brings both European experience and international pedigree to Villa’s attacking department. His versatility allows him to function as a central striker or drift wide into attacking positions.
Development Path and Experience
Guessand’s journey to this transfer included loan spells at Nantes and Lausanne-Sport, where he gained valuable experience in different playing environments. These moves helped develop his understanding of various tactical systems and playing styles.
His breakthrough season at Nice came under manager Franck Haise, who spoke pessimistically about retaining the striker following their final league game in May. Haise acknowledged the likelihood of Guessand’s departure given the interest from bigger clubs.
The forward’s consistent performances in Ligue 1 have established him as one of France’s most promising attacking talents. His goal-scoring record and creative output made him an attractive proposition for clubs seeking attacking depth.
Financial Structure and Strategic Context
The €35 million total package reflects Villa’s commitment to strengthening their squad for multiple competitions. The structure of €30 million guaranteed plus €5 million in performance-related add-ons provides Nice with immediate revenue while protecting Villa against overpayment.
For Nice, the sale represents excellent business for a player they developed through their system. The French club can reinvest the proceeds into their own squad development while maintaining their competitive position in Ligue 1.
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Villa’s investment in Guessand addresses their need for attacking depth alongside Ollie Watkins. The competition for places should benefit both players while providing Emery with tactical flexibility throughout the season.
Medical and Contract Timeline
Medical tests will be conducted at Villa’s Bodymoor Heath training facility, with the club’s medical staff assessing Guessand’s fitness levels ahead of the new season. Barring any unexpected complications, the medical should proceed smoothly.
Contract negotiations have progressed well, with personal terms agreed between the player and Villa representatives. The length of the deal and wage structure have been finalized, leaving only the medical examination as the final step before official confirmation.
This transfer is a big statement of intent from Villa as they prepare for their return to Europe’s premier competition while maintaining their domestic ambitions in the Premier League.
