Aston Villa have gotten off the mark in style in the transfer market by completing a five-year deal for Boubacar Kamara, who is set to be a free agent at the end of his current deal.

One of the most promising midfielders from Ligue 1 has snubbed the chance to play in next season’s Champions League, admitting Villa Park feels like “home” after Steven Gerrard spoke to him. He is nearing the end of his deal with the French club, Olympique de Marseille.

Aston Villa sign Boubacar Kamara on five-year contract; Marseille holding midfielder will leave French club after running down his deal; 22-year-old has just been called up to the France side; “When I met with Steven [Gerrard] in my home I knew Aston Villa was for me,” Kamara said.

After his deal runs out, which is set to expire at the end of June, he will join the Premier League side until 2027. What’s amazing about the capture of the 22-year-old is that they beat Manchester United, Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Lille to his signature.