Aston Villa clinches permanent deal for Wembley hero El Ghazi

Promoted Aston Villa has taken up its option to sign Anwar El Ghazi from Lille after his loan spell culminated in play-off success.

Aston Villa  has signed  Anwar El Ghazi  on a permanent basis from Lille after his successful loan spell.

The winger was a key figure as Villa secured promotion to the Premier League, scoring the first goal in the play-off final win over Derby at Wembley.

Now the 24-year-old is set for a long-term future at Villa Park after signing a four-year contract.

Villa has not disclosed the fee involved but it is widely reported it has paid around £8million for the former Ajax player, having taken up its option to buy the Netherlands international.

Villa head coach Dean Smith said: "Anwar proved to everybody at Wembley how good a player he can be for Aston Villa. He's ready for the step up to the Premier League and he's a young player who has an awful lot of potential."

El Ghazi scored six goals in 34 Championship games last season, and Smith told Villa's website: "It's now my job and the job of the coaching staff and Anwar himself to fulfil the potential that he undoubtedly has. He'll be a great addition to the squad for next season."