Gabby Agbonlahor shares what Morgan Rogers just said to him as Aston Villa exit nears

Morgan Rogers is on the verge of leaving Aston Villa for Chelsea.

While most of the summer narrative was around the England international heading to Arsenal, they were hit with one last shock.

Instead, Chelsea gazumped their London rivals to agree a huge £117million fee to sign Rogers.

Heading to Stamford Bridge with one of their famous long contracts waiting, Rogers has already completed his medical.

While Unai Emery continues to battle PSR and UEFA restrictions, this transfer was unavoidable.

And after starting England's World Cup semi-final loss against Argentina, Rogers won't wear the claret and blue of Villa again.

What has Morgan Rogers said about transfer?

Villa News has covered how Chelsea's huge fee for Rogers will be broken down through multiple sell-on clauses.

That only strengthens what Villa will bank immediately.

Gabby Agbonlahor has gone public after a conversation with Rogers, revealing what he has said.

While many Villa fans have wished him well, there is a small minority not exactly happy with a move to a so-called rival.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Agbonlahor revealed that he messaged Rogers to wish him well at Chelsea, and actually got a response.

This is what Rogers said, "Thank you, mate, I really appreciate it."

The England star likely won't go public with a similar message to fans until the transfer is officially complete and announced.

What do Aston Villa need to do next?

It's been a rough summer of sales so far at Villa Park, but Emery has been busy too.

Johan Manzambi is seen as the replacement for Rogers, signing from Freiberg after a sensational World Cup with Switzerland.

Youri Tielemans has also left for Manchester United, with Joao Gomes coming in from Wolves to take that spot.

But, it's no secret that much more is needed.

With over £150m banked again for NSWE, that must be reinvested as much as possible across the squad.

Depth was a real issue last season, so much more is now needed in the final third, with another winger and playmaking option likely.

With Champions League football to offer, it shouldn't be too hard to pitch Villa to new signings under Emery.