The 26-year-old told the club's website: "My ambition is to play for my country and I think with Aston Villa I will have that possibility. Every player wants to play international football and that is my aim."

He said: "I'm joining a big club in the Premier League.

"This is the best league in the world and last year Villa did very well. They play very good football and had a fantastic season.

"So I am very happy to come here with the opportunity to play in the Premier League. We are also playing in Europe this season, so that will be good.

"I watched Villa last season and Martin O'Neill is a very good coach. He plays exciting attacking football and I am excited to be here."