Aston Villa have completed the signing of French defender Lucas Digne from Everton on a four and a half year contract.
The 28-year-old had fallen out with manager Rafael Benitez, and he needed to leave Goodison Park in order to play regular first-team football.
The Frenchman has established himself as one of the best left-backs in the country since his move from Barcelona, and Villa will undoubtedly improve at the back after his arrival.
Steven Gerrard has improved Aston Villa since replacing Dean Smith, and some impressive business in the January transfer window should help the West Midlands club finish the season strongly.
Digne will add a new dimension to Aston Villa’s play. The Frenchman is not just a good defender. He is quite effective going forward as well.
Meanwhile, the former Everton defender is not the only player Aston Villa have signed this month, and they have secured the loan transfer of Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona as well.
The 29-year-old was struggling to hold down a regular starting berth at the Spanish club, and he needed a move away in order to resurrect his career.
The Brazilian midfielder played his best football in the Premier League with Liverpool. It will be interesting to see if a return to England helps him recapture his confidence and sharpness.
Steven Gerrard played alongside the Brazilian during their time together at Liverpool. It will be interesting to see whether the Aston Villa manager can get the best out of the 29-year-old in the coming months.
