Official: Viktor Gyökeres Signs with Aston Villa in Landmark Transfer Deal

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Aston Villa have officially completed the high-profile signing of Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres in what is being described as a landmark transfer deal for the Midlands club. The 26-year-old forward joins Villa from Portuguese giants Sporting CP after a phenomenal season in the Primeira Liga, making him one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe this summer.

While the club has not confirmed the exact fee, reports suggest the deal is worth around €90 million (£76 million), making Gyökeres the most expensive signing in Aston Villa’s history — a bold statement of intent as the club looks to compete at the highest level both domestically and in Europe.

Gyökeres: “Proud to Join a Club with Ambition”

Speaking in his first interview after signing, Gyökeres expressed excitement about the move.

> “I’m proud to join a club with such ambition. Aston Villa is building something special, and I want to be a big part of that. I’ve heard so much about the fans, the atmosphere at Villa Park, and the direction the club is heading. I’m ready for this next challenge.”

The striker has signed a long-term contract, reportedly lasting until 2030, and will wear the No. 9 shirt for the upcoming season.

From Sporting Stardom to Premier League Dreams

Gyökeres arrives in Birmingham after a sensational 2023–24 campaign in Portugal. He scored 43 goals and provided 15 assists in all competitions for Sporting CP, helping the club win the league title and domestic cup double. His performances earned him multiple accolades, including Primeira Liga Player of the Season and a spot in UEFA’s Team of the Year shortlist.

Before his time in Portugal, Gyökeres was a standout performer for Coventry City in the English Championship, where he netted 40 goals across two seasons and played a key role in their promotion push.

Unai Emery’s Statement Signing

For Aston Villa manager Unai Emery, the arrival of Gyökeres is a major boost. Emery has been vocal about the need for more firepower up front as Villa aim to build on a successful season that saw them qualify for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in over 40 years.

> “Viktor is a complete striker,” Emery said. “He can finish, create, press, and work for the team. He fits perfectly into our system and our vision. His experience across different leagues and his hunger to improve will be key to our plans.”

Fans React with Joy and Optimism

Villa fans have taken to social media to celebrate the signing, many calling it the biggest moment in the club’s modern history. With a young and hungry squad, Gyökeres’ addition gives supporters genuine belief that silverware could be on the horizon.

On platforms like Twitter and Instagram, hashtags like #WelcomeGyökeres and #AVFC have been trending across the UK. Fans outside Villa Park even gathered with Swedish flags and replica shirts to welcome their new No. 9.

What This Means for Villa’s Future

The signing signals a dramatic shift in Aston Villa’s recruitment policy — moving from opportunistic signings to targeting elite-level players in their prime. It’s also seen as a sign of trust in Emery’s leadership and a statement that the club intends to remain competitive among England’s top six.

Gyökeres is expected to make his debut during Villa’s pre-season tour in the United States later this month. He will link up with the squad in the coming days after completing his medical and receiving international clearance.

As Aston Villa prepares for the 2025–26 season, the signing of Viktor Gyökeres marks not just a key addition to the squad but a new era for the club — one driven by ambition, b

elief, and a hunger for top-flight glory.