<
>

Bournemouth defender Tommy Elphick completes move to Aston Villa

Aston Villa have announced that they have wrapped up the signing of Bournemouth defender Tommy Elphick.

Elphhick, 28, moves to the Championship club for a fee reported to be around £3 million, and has signed a three-year deal.

He becomes Villa boss Roberto Di Matteo's first signing as the Italian manager looks to reshape his squad and challenge for a return to the Premier League.

"I'm really pleased to bring Tommy to the football club, Di Matteo told Villa's official website.

"He is a fantastic player and also a fantastic character, which is very important. He knows what is required to win promotion to the Premier League."

Elphick boasts a wealth of Championship experience from his time at Bournemouth and helped the Cherries win promotion to the Premier League two seasons ago.

The 28-year-old made just 14 appearances last season due to injury and, with Bournemouth looking to add to their defensive options during the transfer window, may have found first-team opportunities limited next season.

Villa agreed a fee for Elphick last week, with the player cutting short his honeymoon to hold talks and undergo a medical.