Cameroon international, Jean II Makoun has shifted to Aston Villa from French side Lyon in a three and a half year deal, the English Premier League side confirmed on Saturday.
A statement on Villa's website said the 27 year old ould be eligible to play for the club in around two weeks time, once a work permit had been secured for the midfielder.
"I am thrilled to be here at Aston Villa," Makoun said. "I am really, really happy and very proud to have joined a great club". "Villa have been after me for quite a while so I am delighted it's finally happened. I can't wait to get started."
Villa boss, Gerard Houllier said Makoun's versatility and experience would be an asset to the Birmingham club, who reportedly paid Lyon a 6 million pound transfer fee to secure the player's services.
"Jean is a player who can play in front of the defence as a sitter and defensive midfielder or as a box to box midfielder," Houllier said. "He has several assets about his game. He is also a very experienced player because he played Champions League football with Lille and Lyon."
Aston Villa face Birmingham in a derby match on Sunday.
Aston Villa face Birmingham in a derby match on Sunday.