Villa sign French midfielder Veretout from Nantes

Sherwood’s men have reinvested the cash with deals for Rudy Gestede, Jordan Veretout, Jordan Ayew, Jordan Amavi and Idrissa Gueye, and the 46-year-old is hopeful that the new signings can settle quickly at Villa Park.

Gestede, who cost £200,000 from Cardiff City in 2014, scored 22 goals last season.

“He’s a big, physical striker but he can play and I’m pleased to welcome him to he football club”.

However, Christian Benteke and Fabian Delph have both left Villa Park – to Liverpool and Manchester City respectively – meaning Sherwood has lost his top-scorer and the player that created more chances (36) than any other Villa player.

The 22-year-old is renowned for his range of passing and vision, with Veretout signing a five-year deal also and joining from French club Nantes.

The 24-year-old school service or product, who holds performed 87 time regarding the confederacy considering that his first-team entrance in 2011, said: “I am pleased to sign a different…”

Sherwood had planned to speak to the press after his side’s friendly at Nottingham Forest today but has aborted those plans until the Adebayor deal is completed.

“The competition is going to be fierce here at centre-half but that’s what the gaffer wants”.

Veretout, 22, who has capped at various youth levels for France, has played over 140 games for Nantes, which has been his home since 2003. “But you can’t do well as a club without competition for places”.

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