Confirmed: Leandro Bacuna signs for Villa

Aston Villa have confirmed the signing of  Leandro Bacuna on a three year deal.

The 21-year-old midfielder from FC Groningen was the centre of social media speculation in the last 24 hours.

A friendly match between Groningen and Aston Villa, free to the Dutch team's season ticket holders forms part of the deal and will be played prior to the 2014/15 season.

Bacuna, a 21 year old utility player with well over a 100 senior appearances for FC Groningen to his credit, is an Under 21 international who is yet to make his mark for the senior national team.

"It feels great. It's a new beginning for me and I'm looking forward to being part of this young, hungry team we have at Villa," Bacuna said.

"Leandro's energy and versatility will be really good for us," said Paul Lambert.

"He's a good player, he has bags of energy and he will make an impact.

"He's another player we believe will do well for us. He has played in big games and he has lots of experience for a player so young."