Cardiff City supporters will be closely following Jaden Philogene’s progress at Aston Villa this season, eager to see how he adapts to top-flight football. Philogene was at the heart of one of the most talked-about transfer sagas in the EFL this summer, ultimately returning to Aston Villa after a standout season with Hull City.
Despite missing a few months due to injury, Philogene dazzled in the Championship for Hull last season. Signed for just £5m, the England youth international was a revelation, terrorising defences, scoring goals, and providing assists. His audacious ‘rabona’ goal against Rotherham United in February was a highlight. Philogene finished the season with an impressive tally of 12 goals and six assists at the MKM Stadium, catching the eye of several top European clubs.
It was no surprise, then, that Philogene attracted interest from major teams this summer. Both Tottenham Hotspur, where his younger brother Blake is in the academy, and Barcelona were reportedly keen on securing his signature. In England, Premier League clubs West Ham United, Crystal Palace, Everton, and Ipswich Town were all linked with the 22-year-old, with Everton and Ipswich showing particular interest.
However, it was Aston Villa who won the race to sign Philogene. Newly-promoted Ipswich seemed on the verge of landing him, but Villa smartly exercised a clause in his transfer agreement with Hull, allowing them to match any accepted offer. As a result, Philogene rejoined his former club in what was initially an £18m deal, although Villa will pay just £13m due to a sell-on clause. Now, he has the chance to make his mark in the UEFA Champions League under Unai Emery’s guidance.
Philogene was one of the most sought-after talents in England this summer and has earned his move to the top tier of English football. Cardiff City fans, however, will remember that his journey to prominence began with them two seasons ago. His development will undoubtedly be followed with a sense of pride and nostalgia by the Bluebirds’ supporters as he looks to thrive at Aston Villa this term.