Different Size Candles

Aston Villa have signed Netherlands international defender Ian Maatsen from Chelsea, the clubs confirmed Friday.

ESPN reported earlier this month that the two Premier League sides had agreed a fee of 37.5 million ($47.7 million).

The 22-year-old spent the last season on loan at Borussia Dortmund, making 16 appearances in the Bundesliga and playing every minute of their Champions League knockout games, helping the team reach the final against Real Madrid.

Despite Dortmund wanting to make the move permanent, Villa moved quickly to make a higher offer for the defender as the German side were reluctant to activate the £35m release clause as - ESPN reported on June 6.

Maatsen has agreed a six-year contract with the Unai Emery's Premier League side who will compete in the Champions League for the first time next season.

He is currently with the Netherlands team at Euro 2024 in Germany, where they face Romania in the round of 16 on Tuesday.