Aston Villa land Lille and Senegal midfielder Idrissa Gueye

Aston Villa, 4/1 with Coral for a top 10 finish, have announced the signing of Lille midfielder Idrissa Gueye, with the Senegal star joining Tim Sherwood’s side on a four-year deal, having completed his medical with the Birmingham-based club.

Energetic and influential engine-room marshal Gueye, who reportedly cost £9m but Villa would not disclose the fee, was one of the standout stars in Ligue 1 last term, and widely regarding as Lille’s most impressive player. He replaces Manchester City-bound Fabian Delph.

With London club Crystal Palace and south coast side Southampton also rumoured to be chasing the powerful 25-year-old’s signature, Villa’s swoop can definitely be considered a coup.

TRANSFER NEWS: We are delighted to announce the signing of Idrissa Gueye. Story here: http://t.co/o3hfQXMgiu #AVFC pic.twitter.com/oPA418OxS0

— Aston Villa FC (@AVFCOfficial) July 10, 2015

The dynamic Dakar-born midfielder began his career with Senegalese team Diambars before arriving in Europe to join the Great Danes in 2008, finally making his first senior outing in 2010, going on to make almost 180 appearances.

Capped 18 times for the Lions of Teranga, tenacious Gueye is tipped as a rising star in African football after recording a European career-best four goals and three assists last term alongside some inspirational performances, and should help Sherwood shore-up the Midlands club’s midfield.

Villa currently boast both Fabian Delph and Ashley Westwood as their first-choice pair to hold down the midfield thought, but Gueye would bring further muscle and drive. Snapping-up the Senegal international will ensure Sherwood has a ready-made replacement should Delph decide to seek pastures new, or while Westwood missed a large chunk of last term through injury.