Aston Villa completed the signing of Brazilian midfielder João Gomes on Monday, July 20, 2026, using proceeds from the British record transfer of Morgan Rogers to Chelsea. The club did not reveal the fee paid to recently relegated Wolverhampton Wanderers for the 25-year-old, though reports indicated a figure of 35 million pounds, equivalent to 47 million dollars. Gomes joined shortly after the arrival of Johan Manzambi, signed from Freiburg for more than 50 million pounds following his strong World Cup performance with Switzerland. The midfielder has earned 10 caps for Brazil, with his most recent appearance coming in a World Cup qualifier last March. On the same day, Rogers finalized his 117 million pound move to Chelsea after England’s World Cup campaign. Manager Unai Emery faces significant midfield adjustments ahead of the Premier League and Champions League seasons. Youri Tielemans departed for Manchester United in a reported 35 million pound deal, while Amadou Onana faces a lengthy absence after suffering an ACL injury during the World Cup. The profits from these transfers will support compliance with financial regulations following prior UEFA fines. Villa is expected to receive around 40 million euros in prize money from its Europa League triumph and could earn more from Champions League participation starting in September. However, revenue will be affected next season due to redevelopment work at Villa Park that will increase capacity beyond 50,000 ahead of the 2028 European Championship.
