Mbwana Samatta: Victor Wanyama welcomes Aston Villa's new signing to the Premier League
Football
By
Odero Charles
| Jan 22, 2020
Tottenham Hotspurs midfielder Victor Wanyama has welcomed Aston Villa's new signing Mbwana Samatta to the Premier League.
Samatta completed his move to Aston Villa from Genk for a reported £8.5 million ($11 million) fee on Tuesday to become the first Tanzanian to don a Premier League shirt.
Samatta signed a four-and-a-half year deal, subject to a work permit and international clearance being granted.
Following his move to Aston Villa, Wanyama, took to Facebook to welcome the 27 year-old - captioning the photo: “Welcome to the EPL my brother wishing you all the best as you start your new adventure Mbwana samata.”
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Samatta becomes the fourth East African to play in the Premier League after Victor Wanyama and Burundi-born players, Former West Brom striker Saido Berahino and Ex-Newcastle United midfielder Gael Birigimana.
Samatta has scored 10 goals for Genk in all competitions this season, including against Liverpool in the Champions League at Anfield.
"I'm really pleased we have managed to bring Mbwana to the club," said Villa manager Dean Smith.
"He has scored goals throughout his career and I'm looking forward to working with him."
Smith was badly in need of reinforcements up front after Wesley was ruled out for the rest of the season due to knee ligament damage.
Villa have been forced to play without a recognised striker since the Brazilian was injured in a New Year's Day win at Burnley.
Samatta's deal was not completed in time to face Watford on Tuesday in a huge clash at the bottom of the table.
Villa are in the relegation zone, but just one point behind the Hornets, who are unbeaten in their last six league games.