Carles Gil to Aston Villa: Latest Transfer Details, Comments and Reaction

Aston Villa announced the signing of Spain U21 international Carles Gil on Tuesday, subject to international clearance. The news was announced by the club's official Twitter feed:

Villa manager Paul Lambert couldn't hide his excitement over the club's latest capture in a statement he gave to the Villans' official website, suggesting the 22-year-old could be the missing piece for the team from Birmingham:

"

We've been on the lookout for a creative player and he will certainly bring that extra element to the side

He's only 22 years of age but he will come here and give us something I don't think we have at the moment. He can play either role, coming in off the sides or playing in behind as well.

He can create chances and get those chances put away. He has a lot to offer and I know we can get the best out of him.

"

The young Spaniard is a product of Valencia's vaunted youth system and has spent the past two seasons out on loan with Elche. He paired with new team-mate Carlos Sanchez, helping the small club secure promotion to La Liga and retain their spot in Spain's top division for the first time in over 40 years.

Gil may not be a well-known name, but the young Spaniard could be a very underrated January capture. The midfielder has the versatility to play in multiple attacking spots, and while his decision-making is still a bit raw, he has all of the tools to be a smash hit in the Premier League.    

BeIN Sports' David Cartlidge thinks patience will be key for Villa:

Gil's new contract runs through the 2018-19 season, so he will have plenty of time to adapt to the pace and the physicality of the Premier League.

Villa have struggled with creativity in midfield all season. Lambert and Co. may have just found their answer.

Follow @ReverschPass