Aston Villa confirm £38m deal to sign Emiliano Buendia from Norwich in huge Arsenal transfer blow
ASTON VILLA have confirmed they have reached an agreement with Norwich to sign playmaker Emiliano Buendia.
The news will come as a huge blow to Arsenal who had been keen on bringing the 24-year-old to the Emirates.
It had been thought that the Gunners were in pole position to sign the Argentine ace - who is currently on international duty.
But SunSport revealed on Sunday that Buendia was closing in on a move to the Midlands in a club-record £38million deal.
And now Villa have confirmed the news as they released a after having a bid accepted by the Canaries.
They said: "Aston Villa and Norwich City have reached an agreement for the transfer of Emiliano Buendia.
It is understood that the Villans have agreed to pay an initial £33million with £5m in add-ons.
Norwich, who initially demanded £40m, turned down £30m-plus offers from both Arsenal and Villa.
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North London giants Arsenal failed to return with a second bid, leading Villa to have a clear run at prising Buendia away from Carrow Road.
And things could get better for Villa supporters with Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse believed to be a target.
Villa boss Dean Smith has identified set-piece specialist Ward-Prowse as a potential option as he looks to land the 26-year-old.
Though Villa could face competition from Liverpool as they are also keen on signing the England international.