Aston Villa have reportedly paid €5m in advance to secure the January arrival of Alysson Edward, with the remaining €5m of the guaranteed transfer fee scheduled to be paid in instalments, according to sources in Brazil.
The payment structure is part of a €10m fixed deal agreed between the two clubs, with an additional €2.5m available through performance-related bonuses.

Brazilian journalist Eduardo Gabardo of Zero Hora reports that Grêmio received only half of the fixed amount immediately. The balance will be paid over time, as outlined during negotiations with the Premier League club. Even so, from Aston Villa’s point of view, the transfer is already considered fully concluded.

The staged payments are having a tangible impact in Brazil. Grêmio are using the future instalments as guarantees with domestic banks to obtain short-term financing. The money will be used to settle delayed wages, bonuses and other financial commitments before the end of the year.

When the outstanding funds from Aston Villa are received, Grêmio intend to clear those loans along with the accrued interest. Within the club, there is confidence that all financial matters will be resolved by December, enabling the incoming board to concentrate on the upcoming transfer window.

For Aston Villa, the deal follows a familiar South American transfer model. The club have secured Alysson on a long-term contract while spreading part of the fixed fee over time. The winger is now set to link up with Unai Emery’s squad as Villa continue to strengthen their presence in the South American market.