Former Aston Villa midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger has signed with Lazio.

The Germany international joins Lazio from Stuttgart for a knockdown £800,000.

Hitzlsperger said: "I look forward to this new challenge. It is a privilege to play in the top European league and I look forward to the city of Rome."

Hitzlsperger had spent four and a half years with Stuttgart and before then was nicknamed 'Hitz the Hammer' at Aston Villa.

"Thomas was a player who identified himself with the club very much, and it was not easy for us to let him go, but we respect his decision nevertheless," said Stuttgart general manager Horst Heldt.

"We hope Thomas has much success at his new club and we thank him for his achievements with VfB Stuttgart."