Elsewhere, both Aston Villa and Chelsea have officially confirmed Alejandro Garnacho has completed his initial loan switch to Villa Park. Garnacho has joined Unai Emery’s side on a season-long loan that contains a conditional obligation to buy. The 22-year-old winger, whom the Blues only signed from Manchester United for £40million last summer, will pen a four-year contract with Unai Emery's side at the end of the season, subject to conditions in an obligation‑to‑buy clause worth £42.5m.
Speaking in a statement after the club confirmed the signing, Villa boss Unai Emery said: "We are delighted with Alejandro. He is so talented, young and he showed us his wish to help our project. We are really happy."
Per reporter Ben Jacobs, the conditions that turn the loan permanent are appearance-based. He wrote on X: ‘Garnacho has pre-agreed a four-year contract. ‘Chelsea recoup around €50m /£43m inclusive of loan fee and conditional obligation, which will be appearance triggered.’ Sky Sports News understands the deal includes a conditional obligation to buy, which is considered to be easily achievable. Man Utd could be due around £260k if Garnacho joins Villa permanently after they inserted a 10 per cent sell-on clause in their deal with Chelsea.
Garnacho joined Chelsea last summer from Manchester United for £40m and now departs on loan, less than 12 months after arriving. The 22-year-old was told in early July that new manager Xabi Alonso could not guarantee him regular playing time, prompting his departure. He subsequently did not report for Chelsea's pre-season, with his exit being finalised. Garnacho scored eight goals in 43 appearances in all competitions for Chelsea last season but never endeared himself to supporters following his time at Old Trafford.
New Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso previously stated Garnacho was subject to interest from other clubs. ”The situation [is] that we have spoken with the sport directors and there’s an interest for him from other clubs,” he said earlier in July. “Let's see how it develops, but hopefully it finishes in the best possible way for all the parties.”