Aston Villa sign Calum Chambers from Arsenal 

Pablo Mari and Calum Chambers of Arsenal battle with Ivan Toney of Brentford -Premier League
Pablo Mari and Calum Chambers of Arsenal battle with Ivan Toney of Brentford -Premier League - IMAGO / PRiME Media Images

Aston Villa have completed the shock signing of Calum Chambers from Arsenal on a three-and-half year deal.

The 27-year-old, who can play in both central defence and at right-back joins Steven Gerrard‘s side after spending over seven seasons at Arsenal.

The Gunners signed him from Southampton in 2014 and he made over 100 appearances for the North London side. However, his chances has been reduced in recent times and he has made only four appearances this season. This season he has played just five games this term, scoring in the Carabao Cup victory over Leeds.

With his deal set to expire in the summer, Arsenal decided to part ways with him to avoid losing him for nothing in the summer.

Reacting to the deal, Chambers told Villa’s website

“It’s a massive club and they’re in a great moment.

“It’s a very exciting place to be and everyone can see that from the outside. Things are happening here and it’s definitely moving in the right direction.

“For me, it was a no-brainer to join a great club. It was the right thing for me to do.”

“It’s a great club, it’s a massive club. I’ve played at Villa Park a few times and it’s a great stadium with a great set of fans.

“The manager did very well at Rangers. He’s a young, exciting manager and I can’t wait to work with him.

“It’s a great stage to be joining the club at. The club’s building momentum and it’s an exciting time to be here. You can really feel that being in and around the building. You can feel the energy around the place.

“I feel like I’ve joined at a great time and I can’t wait to get started and give it my all.”

The deal for the defender, which was announced by the club on Thursday night, caught most people by surprise. But it ultimately proved the pulling power of Steven Gerrard and Aston Villa who have already brought in three players- Philippe Coutinho, Lucas Digne, and Robin Olson – this January.

The former Liverpool captain is overseeing a change of fortunes at Villa Park and is signing players who have played at big clubs and have tested titles in the past.