Aston Villa are poised to secure a significant coup for their academy, finalising a deal for a highly-rated teenage striker from France.
Villa Strike Agreement for 'Gem' Forward
According to renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, Aston Villa have agreed a €12 million deal to sign 16-year-old Brian Madjo from French Ligue 1 club FC Metz. Romano described the transfer as being "orchestrated behind the scenes" for the player he labelled a "gem".
The agreement includes a five-year contract for the teenager, who is scheduled to undergo a medical. This move would make Madjo the club's second developmental signing of the January transfer window, following the arrival of Brazilian youngster Alysson.
Profile of a Prodigy: From Enfield to Ligue 1
Brian Madjo, who turns 17 next week, has a fascinating background. Born in Enfield, England, he grew up in Luxembourg before joining the Metz academy in 2023. He signed his first professional contract with the French club in the summer of 2025.
His rapid development is evidenced by his five first-team appearances for Metz in Ligue 1, where he has already made his senior debut. He has also represented England at Under-17 level. His physical style and playing profile have drawn early comparisons to former Manchester United, Chelsea, and Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku.
He is the son of former professional footballer Guy Madjo, who had a career across the English lower leagues and non-league.
Villa's Long-Term Vision
This substantial investment in a 16-year-old underscores Aston Villa's commitment to building for the future under their current sporting project. Securing a player of Madjo's burgeoning reputation for a seven-figure fee highlights the competitive nature of the youth recruitment market.
The signing aligns with a strategy of identifying and developing elite young talent, aiming to nurture them within the club's system for the first team or to increase their future transfer value. His arrival will be closely monitored by Villa fans eager to see if he can fulfil his considerable potential and live up to the lofty Lukaku comparison.
