Stephen Ireland leaves Aston Villa for Stoke City

Stoke City have completed their second transfer of the afternoon by signing Stephen Ireland on a permanent contract from Aston Villa.

The 27-year-old had been on a season-long loan deal at the Britannia Stadium, but his permanent move allowed the Potters to dip into the loan market again to sign John Guidetti from Manchester City until the end of the season.

Stoke manager Mark Hughes told the club's official website: "Stephen is a talented footballer and has shown what he's capable of since he joined us. We're delighted to have made his switch a permanent arrangement."

Ireland has made 16 appearances for Stoke this season and has scored three goals in all competitions.