Sherwood backs Veretout to make a difference at Villa

Villa, who have already brought in seven players, also hope to complete a loan deal for Emmanuel Adebayor, the Tottenham Hotspur striker, and Jordan Veretout, the Nantes midfielder.

Benin global Gestede scored 22 goals for the Ewood Park club last term, including 20 in the Championship.

He becomes manager Tim Sherwood’s ninth summer signing, while Veretout – who made 146 appearance for the French side – is the fourth recruit from Ligue 1.

“I’m really pleased Jordan decided to choose Aston Villa over the other options he had and opt to continue his development with us”, Sherwood said.

The 22-year-old connects linked to five-year package from Ligue one- confederacy Nantes, being connected with a step into the Premier League all through the summer season, but Villa have eliminated the contest to get the previous young individuals the world over. “He’s a big, physical striker, but he can play and I’m pleased to welcome him to the football club”.

“I know that number-nine style player has been very popular with fans of this club”.

The forward came through the ranks at FC Metz before joining Cardiff in 2011, helping the Welsh club to secure promotion to the Premier League.

Former Arsenal striker Alan Smith told the Daily Telegraph that he feels Aston Villa are short on players who can change games this season.

Crespo was a permanent member of Cordoba’s defence last season and although he did not prevent the small Spanish side from ending the season in La Liga’s relegation zone, he has done enough to impress another move across Europe, having previously played in Italy for both Padova and Bologna. “But you can’t do well as a club without competition for places”.