Villa sign Ollie Watkins from Brentford for club record fee

Aston Villa have completed the signing of striker Ollie Watkins from Brentford on a five-year-deal for a club-record fee of £28million.

The 24-year-old was the Championship's joint-top scorer last season with 26 goals and is Villa's second signing of the transfer window following the arrival of defender Matty Cash from Nottingham Forest.

Villa were also in the running to sign Callum Wilson from Bournemouth but the England international opted for Newcastle instead.

Watkins said: "I am so excited to join Aston Villa and to reunite with Dean Smith as my Head Coach. I cannot wait to wear the famous claret and blue in the Premier League.

"I want to do something special here and score some goals."

Villa boss Dean Smith added: "Ollie has developed into one of the most sought-after strikers in the country and we are looking forward to seeing him show his great qualities in an Aston Villa shirt.

"He is a hugely determined character who has both the ability and personality to succeed at the highest level."

Ollie Watkins: Announced. ✅

Say hello to our new striker! 🙌#WatkinsAnnounced

— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) September 9, 2020

Smith, who signed Watkins as Brentford manager, will be hoping his new recruit can solve Villa's problem in front of goal.

Villa avoided relegation on the final day of last season but only scored 41 goals on their return to the Premier League.

Wesley scored five goals in 21 games in the league before suffering a serious knee ligament injury in January and it's still unclear when the Brazilian striker will return.