Aston Villa confirm signing of striker Wesley Moraes for record fee

Aston Villa have confirmed the signing of Brazilian striker Wesley Moraes for a club-record fee, believed to be worth around £22million. A deal for the 22-year-old was agreed last month with Club Brugge and formalities of the transfer are now complete after he was granted a work permit. Moraes is set to join up with Dean Smith’s squad as they prepare for life back in the Premier League following promotion via the play-offs. Villa have already brought in the likes of Jota, Anwar El Ghazi, Kortney Hause and Matt Targett as the midlands club reshape the squad. Moraes, who scored 14 goals for the Belgian side last season, is confident he can make an impact in the English top flight. “I was very happy when I heard that Aston Villa were interested in me – and for a record fee,” the Brazilian told Villa club media. “I’m just hoping that now I’ll be able to show why out on the pitch. “I’m hoping to settle in quickly so I can help the team win trophies and rise up the table. “For me the Premier League is a real stage – a great division. I’m hoping I can adapt quickly and show what I’ve got to offer.” Moraes added: “You’re going to see a lot of power and a lot of quality. “I’m really happy to have the chance to play in the Premier League and I’m hoping to play well and score lots of goals, to help Aston Villa as best as I can.” Topics Premier League, Aston Villa Villa defender Amavi out for rest of season Aston Villa appoint new chairman Villa not fearful of the drop, says new chairman Big spending won’t solve crisis – Villa chairman Theresa May says Lionesses ‘inspired millions’ as social media reacts to defeat Neville hails Lionesses despite semi-final loss Goodwin keen to build long-term foundations at St Mirren Lennon has Champions League concern after Simunovic red card Mali top Africa Cup of Nations Group E as Haidara strike seals win over Angola The new Financial Fair Play rule change that could completely change how next season’s Premier League plays out EVERY Premier League club’s breakthrough star of 2019/20 Arsenal have entered talks with this free agent Quiz! How many of the 100 most expensive Premier League transfers can you name? Quiz! How many of Arsenal’s 50 biggest transfers can you name?