ASTON VILLA have confirmed they have reached an agreement with Norwich to sign playmaker Emiliano Buendia.
The news will come as a huge blow to Arsenal who had been keen on bringing the 24-year-old to the Emirates.
It had been thought that the Gunners were in pole position to sign the Argentine ace – who is currently on international duty.
But SunSport revealed on Sunday that Buendia was closing in on a move to the Midlands in a club-record £38million deal.
And now Villa have confirmed the news as they released a statement after having a bid accepted by the Canaries.
They said: “Aston Villa and Norwich City have reached an agreement for the transfer of Emiliano Buendia.
“As Emiliano is currently in the Argentina national team’s biosecure bubble, preparing for a World Cup qualifying match with Colombia on Tuesday evening, he will undergo a medical and complete the transfer after the game.”
Norwich also addressed the departure to their fans, as their statement read: “Norwich City can confirm that a club record deal has been agreed with Aston Villa for the transfer of Emi Buendia.”
It is understood that the Villans have agreed to pay an initial £33million with £5m in add-ons.
Norwich, who initially demanded £40m, turned down £30m-plus offers from both Arsenal and Villa.
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North London giants Arsenal failed to return with a second bid, leading Villa to have a clear run at prising Buendia away from Carrow Road.
And things could get better for Villa supporters with Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse believed to be a target.
Villa boss Dean Smith has identified set-piece specialist Ward-Prowse as a potential option as he looks to land the 26-year-old.
Though Villa could face competition from Liverpool as they are also keen on signing the England international.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
