🚨 Aston Villa Captain John McGinn Signs Long-Term Deal with Everton, Announces Immediate Departure from Villa Park
*Birmingham / Liverpool – June 27, 2025* — In a dramatic and unexpected move that has sent shockwaves through the Premier League, **Aston Villa captain John McGinn** has **signed a long-term contract with Everton** and announced his **immediate departure** from Villa Park. The 30-year-old Scottish midfielder, known for his leadership, tireless energy, and aggressive midfield presence, is set to begin a new chapter at Goodison Park, leaving behind a legacy at Villa that spans over six memorable years.
—
### ⚠️ Official Announcement and Transfer Details
Early Friday morning, both **Aston Villa** and **Everton FC** confirmed the transfer in coordinated statements posted across their websites and social media channels.
> *“Aston Villa can confirm that club captain John McGinn has left the club after completing a permanent transfer to Everton Football Club. We thank John for his exemplary service and leadership and wish him all the best in the next chapter of his career.”*
>
> *“Everton Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of John McGinn on a four-year contract until June 2029. The Scotland international joins as part of our long-term project under manager Sean Dyche.”*
Although neither club has officially disclosed the transfer fee, sources close to the negotiations report a **deal worth approximately £18 million**, including performance-based add-ons.
—
### 🗣️ McGinn’s Emotional Goodbye: “Villa Will Always Be in My Heart”
In a heartfelt video message to Villa fans, McGinn thanked the club, his teammates, and the supporters for their unwavering belief and support:
> *“This club gave me everything — a home, a family, unforgettable memories. From promotion to Europe, every step of the journey has meant the world to me. But now, it’s time for a new challenge. Villa will always be in my heart, and I leave with my head held high.”*
McGinn also expressed his excitement about the move to Everton:
> *“I had great conversations with Sean Dyche and the board. Their vision for the future is ambitious, and I’m ready to give my all for the Toffees. I can’t wait to meet the fans and get started at Goodison.”*
—
### 🦁 A Villa Legacy: Six Years of Passion, Progress, and Pride
McGinn joined Aston Villa in 2018 from Hibernian for a modest £2.5 million. He quickly became a fan favorite due to his relentless work rate, lung-busting runs, and thunderous long-range strikes. Over his six seasons with the club, he:
* Made **226 appearances**
* Scored **27 goals**
* Captained Villa through one of its most successful modern periods
* Helped the club gain promotion in 2019 and re-establish itself as a Premier League mainstay
* Played a crucial role in Villa’s qualification for **European football** in recent campaigns
He was named **club captain** ahead of the 2022/23 season and has been widely praised for his influence both on and off the pitch.
—
### 🔵 Why Everton? Dyche’s Rebuild in Full Swing
For Everton, the signing of McGinn is seen as a **cornerstone acquisition** in manager **Sean Dyche’s long-term rebuild**. After years of instability and narrowly avoiding relegation, the Merseyside club is looking to restore its status as a top-half Premier League side.
Dyche, known for his preference for grit, intensity, and leadership, believes McGinn is the perfect fit for his system.
> *“John is a leader, a fighter, and a player who never gives less than 100%. He brings Premier League experience and hunger. He’s exactly what we need to push forward.”*
McGinn is expected to be **installed as a vice-captain** and could potentially wear the armband at times, depending on team rotation and injury situations.
—
### 😢 Fan Reaction: Mixed Emotions in Birmingham
The reaction from Aston Villa supporters has been one of **deep emotion and reluctant understanding**. While many are heartbroken to see McGinn leave, there is a widespread sense of gratitude for everything he gave the club.
* “Legend forever. Thank you for everything, Super John.”
* “Can’t believe it’s happening. You wore the armband with pride.”
* “You’ll always be one of us, no matter the shirt you wear now.”
On the other hand, Everton fans have welcomed McGinn enthusiastically, seeing him as a **statement signing** that aligns with Dyche’s vision of rebuilding with experienced, proven Premier League talent.
—
### 📅 What’s Next for McGinn and Villa?
McGinn is expected to **join Everton’s preseason camp next week**, where he’ll be introduced to his new teammates and begin training at Finch Farm. He could make his debut in Everton’s upcoming preseason tour of the United States in July.
As for Aston Villa, manager **Unai Emery** now faces the task of appointing a **new club captain**, with names like Douglas Luiz, Tyrone Mings, and Emiliano Martínez being mentioned as potential successors.
—
### 📌 Final Thoughts: The End of an Era, the Start of a New Journey
John McGinn’s transfer marks the **end of an emotional chapter** in Aston Villa’s modern history. He embodied the fighting spirit, resilience, and heart of a club that rose from the Championship to challenge Europe’s elite.
Now, he embarks on a **new mission with Everton**, bringing with him the same fire that made him beloved in Birmingham. Only time will tell if this move becomes a turning point in both clubs’ trajectories, but one thing is clear: **John McGinn’s story in the Premier League is far from over.**
