Rudy Gestede adds to Villa's firepower as he joins from Blackburn

Goal machine Rudy Gestede has joined Aston Villa from Blackburn on a five-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

The 26-year-old Benin international, who sbagged 22 goals for Rovers in all competitions last term, in tandem with freescoring Jordan Rhodes.

Gestede joined Rovers from Cardiff City in January 2014 after a spell on loan and the Lancashire club have cashed in on his success.

Villa boss Sherwood will be chuffed to get a regular goalscorer in having lost the firepower of Big Chris Benteke.

He said on the official website: "I've known about Rudy since he was at Cardiff City and he is a player I've always admired.

"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."