Aston Villa target Tranquillo Barnetta signs for Schalke 04

Schalke 04 have completed the signing of Swiss midfielder Tranquillo Barnetta on a free transfer.

The experienced midfielder Barnetta had been linked with a host of Premier League clubs including strong interest from Aston Villa.

Schalke general manager Horst Heldt has expressed his delight at securing Barnetta.

"We are very happy that Tranquillo has decided to join us," Heldt said. "He has enormous qualities and is very flexible, which he has proved for Bayer Leverkusen as well as the Switzerland national team."

The 27-year-old can look forward to Champions League football next season in Germany, a factor which is thought to have helped the Swiss star make his final decision.