Aston Villa have completed the signature of defensive midfielder Jordan Veretout from Ligue 1 side FC Nantes.
The 22-year-old midfielder has signed a five-year deal with the Villans and becomes the fourth player to arrive at the club from Ligue 1 this summer after Jordan Amavi, Idrissa Gueye and Jordan Ayew.
A highly rated young midfielder, Veretout was schooled at Nantes’ youth academy and established himself as one of the key members of the squad at the Stade de la Beaujoire.
Aston Villa boss Tim Sherwood has expressed his delight at securing another young Frenchman and is excited to see Veretout in action in the Premier League next season.
Speaking to the club’s official website, the Villa manager said: "I'm really pleased Jordan decided to choose Aston Villa over the other options he had and opt to continue his development with us.
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"He is only 22-years-old but he is vastly experienced for someone that age.
"He has played over 140 games in Ligue 1 and is a really exciting young player.
"I know he is very highly rated over in France so we are delighted to get this deal over the line."
Veretout made 142 appearances for Nantes since making his debut in the second tier of French football in the 2010/11 campaign.
The midfielder has represented France at the Under-18 and Under-21 level and has also won the Under-20 World Cup.
Tottenham were heavily linked with wanting to take Veretout to north London, but the youngster will play his football in the claret and blue of Villa next season.
