Aston Villa announced the permanent signing of left back Lucas Digne from Everton on Thursday morning.
Digne arrives in Birmingham on a four and a half year deal for a transfer fee of £23 million. The Frenchman is Villa’s second signing of the January transfer window and joins the club just days after Philippe Coutinho’s loan move from Barcelona was completed.
Out of favor with Everton boss Rafa Benitez, Digne made only 10 league appearances for the Toffees in 2021-22.
Villa manager Steven Gerrard prioritized the signing of a left back and, on his day, Digne is one of the most dynamic full backs in the Premier League. The creative potential of a Digne-Coutinho partnership on the left side of the pitch will be frightening for Premier League opposition.
Jack Grealish’s departure in the summer and Matt Targett’s persistent struggle for form have blunted Villa’s left-sided attack this season. Digne and Coutinho will provide a fresh threat from wide areas.
The duo were teammates for half a season at Barcelona and won the 2017-18 La Liga title. Digne signed for Everton in 2018 and made 110 appearances for the Liverpool side. He’s featured 43 times for the France national team.
Both Digne and Couthinho joined first team training and will be available for selection for Villa’s Premier League fixture with Manchester United on Saturday.