Aston Villa have announced the signing of Boubacar Kamara from Marseille on a five-year contract.
The Frenchman had been linked with Manchester United, Atletico Madrid and Bayern Munich as his previous contract was set to expire at the end of this season.
Steven Gerrard is said to have played an important role in convincing Kamara to join the Villains, as the manager continues to get his summer transfer done as early as possible.
With Philippe Coutinho committing his future to Villa already, the addition of Kamara to the midfield can help them challenge for a European spot next season.
The 22-year-old is the perfect defensive midfielder for any team. His ability to win the ball for his team is outstanding. He ranks in the top one percent of midfielders in Ligue 1 when it comes to gaining possession through pressing the opponent.
Welcome to Aston Villa, @BoubaKamara_4! 🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/hCnQtudtpe
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) May 23, 2022
Despite playing fewer minutes than last season, Kamara had higher combined tackles and interceptions this campaign. His strength and aerial ability along with efficient passing can be vital in the Premier League.
He won 55% of his aerial duels and 60% of his ground duels, completed 91% of his passes and made zero mistakes leading to a goal as he helped Marseille to a second-place finish in the league.
Villa manager Steven Gerrard spoke about the signing and said: “I am delighted that we have been able to attract one of the most promising young talents in European football. We have a very clear plan to make our team stronger and Bouba is an important part of that.”
A midfield five of Kamara, Coutinho, John McGinn, Jacob Ramsey and Emiliano Buendia can be a difficult force to play against next season – but Gerrard will still look to add more to his roster.
Rangers’ defender Calvin Bassey and Liverpool’s Joe Gomez have been rumoured with a move to Villa Park. James Tarkowski has also been on Gerrard’s radar after Burnley suffered relegation back to the Championship on Sunday, with the latter available on a free transfer.Â
