While the midlands club are refusing to state the fee, it is believed to be around £2.5million.

Manchester City did express late interest in the American but Friedel confirmed his intention to join the Villa Park outfit.

The 37-year-old was initially given permission to speak with Villa but Rovers said they would only allow the move to go through once they had signed a replacement.

They achieved that aim by completing the capture of England international Paul Robinson and Villa were quick to take advantage.

The move brings to an end Friedel's eight-year association with Rovers, who he joined from Liverpool in 2000.

Blackburn reluctantly gave way to his request to leave in recognition of such long service.