Orien Jean-François: Aston Villa are preparing to sign the Chelsea midfielder for £450,000

Aston Villa are set to sign Chelsea midfielder Orien Jean-Francois on a permanent deal for £450,000.

The 24-year-old joined Chelsea from Paris Saint-Germain in 2024, and Villa’s fee is set to be a club-record sale for the Blues.

The French midfielder has struggled to get regular playing time with Chelsea, while Villa have shown ambition this season, signing Arsenal’s Jenna Negsönger on loan until the end of the season earlier on Saturday.

Villa ranks eighth in the Women’s Premier League with three wins and four draws in its first 11 matches.

They have the option to make this move permanent for the Nighswonger Defender.

The 25-year-old, who was part of the USA squad that won Olympic gold at Paris 2024, has played just 16 minutes in the WSL this season.

“We have been following her for some time and are delighted that she has joined our exciting project,” Villa women’s football director Marissa Ewers said.

“This signing forms part of our growing ambitions as we continue to build an exciting and competitive squad, and we believe Gina will add real quality to the group.”