Aston Villa have signed Australian goalkeeper Joe Gauci on the final day of the Premier League's winter transfer window.
The 23-year-old, who has been capped twice by the Socceroos, will link up with his new club following the conclusion of Australia's Asian Cup campaign.
Gauci has reportedly signed a contract through to 2028, with Adelaide set to receive a fee of around £1.3 million (AU$2.5 million) for the transfer.
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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
Gauci isn't expected to be first-choice between the sticks for Unai Emery's side, with World Cup-winning keeper Emi Martinez at the club.
Following the news of his transfer, Gauci thanked Adelaide fans for their support during his time at the club.
“Thank you Reds fans, the support you’ve shown me over the last 3 and a half seasons has been nothing short of incredible," Gauci said.
“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.”
.@AVFCOfficial fans, THIS is why your club have signed Aussie rising star Joe Gauci 🧤🇦🇺
— Isuzu UTE A-League (@aleaguemen) February 1, 2024
Superb shot-stopper. Socceroo. And still only 23! pic.twitter.com/e8iEK9U3Tg
Adelaide United goalkeeper coach Eugene Galekovic sung the emerging shotstopper's praises.
“While we are sad to see him go, we understand that this transfer presents a fantastic opportunity for Joe to further elevate his career, joining one of the worlds truly great competitions," Galekovic said.
“We wish Joe all the success in the world, and should he return to Australia, he will always be welcome back at Adelaide.”
Gauci will hope to emulate the success of compatriot Mark Bosnich, who made 179 league appearances for the Birmingham-based club.
Villa currently sit fifth in the Premier League, equal on points with Ange Postecoglou's Tottenham.
