Aston Villa sign Leeds starlet Fabian Delph for £8m

Aston Villa last night completed the signing of Fabian Delph from Leeds for a fee which could rise to £8million. Villa boss Martin O'Neill, who chased the highly-rated 19-year-old all summer, beat Manchester City to his signature.

Delph admits that Aston Villa's reputation for promoting young English talent made it an easy decision for him to move from Leeds - and turn his back on interest from Manchester City.

The midfielder, who joined Martin O'Neill's club for £6million, said: "There are a lot of young English players here and an absolutely superb manager. I'm absolutely delighted. It's a big step up but I'm looking forward to it and hopefully I can do well.

"I've managed to get the move here to Villa and I'm going to work my hardest and hopefully the gaffer will give me the opportunity to play.

"I've been to look at the ground and it's absolutely unreal. It's mind-blowing. If I get the chance to play and do well I'll be really chuffed with myself."