Aston Villa are set to make another addition to their squad with Levante full-back Andres Garcia set to join the club in a €7 million deal, according to Relevo.
The Villains also agreed to €2 million in add-ons and 15% of any future sale going to Levante.
The Spanish defender has been one of the breakout stars of the Segunda Division this season and will link up with Villa immediately rather than being loaned back to his former club, despite Levante’s preference to retain him until the summer.
Garcia has been instrumental in their campaign, bagging three goals and creating nine big chances in 22 appearances while helping them keep four clean sheets.
This move marks another major coup for Villa manager Unai Emery, who has been strengthening Villa’s roster as they look to climb up the Premier League table in the second half of the season.
Sporting CP and Real Betis were strongly linked to Garcia, with Sporting even tabling an official bid. However, Aston Villa’s financial muscle and the allure of the Premier League tipped the scales in their favour.
Garcia is reportedly excited about the club’s project and the chance to work under fellow Spaniard Emery. The Villains also have a healthy contingent of Spanish speakers like Pau Torres, Emiliano Martinez, and Alex Moreno.
Garcia becomes the second signing for Villa this winter after completing the signing of attacker Donyell Malen from Borussia Dortmund for £18 million.
Villa’s qualification for the Champions League and their growing stature in European football also played a pivotal role in the young defender’s choice.
Villa’s sporting directors Monchi and Damia Vidagany were reportedly in Spain over the weekend, scouting reinforcements, and Garcia emerged as their prime target.
For Levante, the deal represents a significant windfall, but they will lose one of their brightest talents in the midst of their push for promotion.
