Rudy Gestede joins Aston Villa from Blackburn Rovers

Aston Villa have announced the signing of striker Rudy Gestede from Blackburn Rovers.

The Benin international, 26, has joined the club on a five-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

Gestede scored 22 goals for Blackburn last season after arriving at Ewood Park on a permanent deal from Cardiff City in January 2014.

"I've known about Rudy since he was at Cardiff City and he is a player I've always admired," manager Tim Sherwood told Villa's official website.

"His goalscoring ratio last season was fantastic and he is someone who certainly knows how to find the back of the net. He's a big, physical striker but he can play and I'm pleased to welcome him to the football club."

Gestede has scored three goals in six appearances for Benin since 2013.