Glenn Whelan ends nearly a decade with Stoke to join Aston Villa

After nine-and-a-half years of dictating play from the middle of Stoke City's midfield, Glenn Whelan is now a Villan.

The 33-year-old signed a two-year deal in Birmingham, and BBC Sport understands Aston Villa paid £1 million to bring him aboard.

Whelan, an 81-time international for Ireland, is the fourth signing at Aston Villa this summer, following more noted Premier League pedigree in John Terry and Ahmed Elmohamady, and goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, who's on loan from Manchester United.

"I have enjoyed happy times at Stoke City but now is the time for a new football adventure - and what a club to join in Aston Villa," Whelan said.

"We may be in the Championship but everything about this club screams Premier League - and it's the job of the players to get us back up there."

The Manchester City academy graduate previously represented Bury and Sheffield Wednesday in the third and second tiers before he was promoted from the Championship with Stoke in 2008. He became part of the Potters' furniture, making 336 appearances for the club.

Whelan will have the chance to make his professional debut for Aston Villa when Hull City visits for both sides' opening tie in the new Championship season.