Aston Villa sign Ritchie De Laet from Leicester City on three-year deal

Aston Villa have completed the signing of Ritchie De Laet from Leicester City on a three-year deal.

The 27-year-old defender made 12 appearances for the Foxes last season, helping them win the Premier League title for the first time in the club's history.

De Laet also played a part in Middlesbrough's successful promotion campaign to the top flight during a short loan spell at the Riverside.

Today, though, De Laet begins a new chapter in his career having penned a permanent deal with Villa, who were relegated to the Championship last season.

Manager Roberto Di Matteo told the club's official website: "I'm pleased to have brought Ritchie to the club. He is another player who not only has Championship experience but has also played a part in helping a team win promotion back to the Premier League."

De Laet spent four years at Leicester.