Socceroos goalkeeper Joe Gauci is heading to the Premier League for a reportedly massive transfer fee.
The 23-year-old Adelaide United star was on Friday confirmed to be joining Aston Villa, with veteran journalist Fabrizio Romano putting the fee at just shy of AUD$2.5 million on a contract until 2028.
Gauci will join Villa after the AFC Asian Cup and is set to take over as backup to the 2022 World Cup-winning keeper, Emiliano Martinez.
🟣🔵🇦🇺 Joe Gauci has just signed the contract as new Aston Villa goalkeeper from Adelaide United.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 1, 2024
€1.5m fee plus add-ons, contract until June 2028. pic.twitter.com/Mfgp7TqyRZ
Gauci has been with United since the 2020-21 season and made 76 appearances after a short stint with Melbourne City. He was rewarded with Socceroos selection after a strong start to the current A-League season, and looms as captain Mat Ryan’s heir.
Speaking to United’s website, Gauci said: “Thank you Reds fans, the support you’ve shown me over the last 3 and a half seasons has been nothing short of incredible.
“From my debut to my first home game and clean sheet, to playing finals football at Coopers Stadium and classic away wins, the love you’ve given me over this period has made these memories even more memorable and they are something I’m going to carry with me for the rest of my life.
“I would also like to thank all the staff members and players, past and present, that have supported me through this journey. The environment the Club has created has really allowed me to flourish and be my true self, on and off the field, that has allowed me to reach the level that I have.
“I would like to wish everyone at the club all the best for the rest of the season and I look forward to supporting the Club from afar. I really hope in the future our paths will cross again.”
Aston Villa is pleased to announce the signing of Joe Gauci from Adelaide United! ✅
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) February 1, 2024
The 23-year old goalkeeper is currently with the Australia national team at the #AsianCup2023 and will link up with Unai Emery's squad upon his return, subject to international clearance and… pic.twitter.com/LTPGkaDuCm