Aston Villa welcomes back promising winger after impressive 2023/24 season

Aston Villa have re-signed winger Jaden Philogene from Hull City for £18 million, less than a year after his departure. The 22-year-old's impressive season with the Tigers, which saw him score 12 goals and provide six assists in 32 appearances, prompted Villa to exercise their 'matching rights' clause.

Philogene's transfer back to Aston Villa was facilitated by a clause in his original deal with Hull City, allowing Villa to match any accepted bid within a three-day window. Ipswich Town's £18 million bid for Philogene triggered Villa's response, effectively paying around £13 million after considering a 30% sell-on clause.

The winger, who began his career in Villa's academy, made his Premier League debut under Dean Smith in the 2020/21 season before gaining experience on loan at Stoke City and Cardiff City. Despite impressing Unai Emery in pre-season last summer, Philogene chose to join Hull for guaranteed playing time, a decision that paid dividends.

Upon his return, Philogene signed a five-year contract with Villa, having pre-agreed personal terms when he initially left. His decision to return was influenced by the club's ambition and the opportunity to play in the Champions League.

Unai Emery, Villa's head coach, is optimistic about Philogene's potential impact on the team. The winger's versatility across the frontline adds valuable depth to Villa's attacking options, especially with the potential departure of Moussa Diaby.

Philogene expressed his excitement about returning to Villa Park, stating,

"It feels amazing, it's like I'm back at home. Unai spoke to me face-to-face and we had a very good conversation about my playing time. He said I did well when I was here in pre-season last year and that I'm going to get chances this time. It also depends on me and how I play."

Philogene's return marks Aston Villa's seventh signing of the summer, following the acquisitions of Ian Maatsen, Samuel Iling-Junior, Lewis Dobbin, Enzo Barrenechea, Ross Barkley, and the returning Cameron Archer. The club is also expected to sign Amadou Onana from Everton in a club-record £50 million deal, signalling their ambitious plans for the upcoming season.

During his time at Hull City, Philogene quickly established himself as one of the Championship's most dangerous forwards, with his dribbling skills and flair catching the eye. His memorable goal against Rotherham in February 2024 highlighted his potential to make a significant impact at Villa.

As Aston Villa prepares for their Champions League campaign, Philogene's return adds much-needed depth and competition in the final third. With Leon Bailey, Jacob Ramsey, Morgan Rogers, and Emiliano Buendia in the squad, Philogene will need to work hard to secure his place in the starting line-up.

Philogene's ambition and drive are evident as he aims to replicate his success at Hull City and make a lasting impression at Villa Park. He said,

"It's the latest chapter in my Villa journey and hopefully I can play my best, get game time and do it in front of the fans. What I did at Hull, I want to do the same things at Villa Park; make the fans aware of my skills and score goals."

Jaden Philogene's return to Aston Villa is a strategic move by the club to bolster their squad depth and attacking options. With his proven talent and determination, Philogene is set to play a crucial role as Villa aims to compete on multiple fronts, including their much-anticipated Champions League campaign.