Corkman Conor Hourihane joins Aston Villa from Barnsley

Aston Villa have sealed the signature of Ireland under-21 international Conor Hourihane from Barnsley for an undisclosed sum, believed to be in the region of £3 million.

The outgoing Barnsley captain has agreed a three-and-a-half year deal with the Villains after the clubs agreed terms that also includes a “significant” sell-on clause.

The former Sunderland, Ipswich Town and Plymouth Argyle midfielder has emerged as one of the English Football League's most prolific goalscorers and assist-makers.

He topped the league table for assists during the calendar year 2016, and he's managed six goals in 28 appearances in the Championship this season, including a recent winner against Leeds United.

“With the size of the club and where it wants to go, it was a no brainer for me to come here,” Hourihane told the Villa website.

“Aston Villa is one of the very biggest clubs in England. Then there’s Villa Park. We have Steve Bruce in charge. We have fantastic facilities. We have great players.

“I want to continue the way I have been playing at Barnsley. My confidence is high. Long may that continue. I work hard day in and day out and hopefully my form continues.

“Villa fans can expect an all-round midfielder. I like to stop attacks and also start attacks.

“I like to get in the box and score goals. I like to chip in with goals and assists. Hopefully that will continue – there’s no reason why not.

“I just can’t wait to embrace playing at Aston Villa and hit the ground running.”

The Tykes took the unusual step of releasing a statement explaining the club's decision to “reluctantly” allow him to move before his contract was due to expire in the summer.

The statement reads: “Following months of transfer speculation surrounding the Reds captain, the Irishman has signed a three-and-a-half year contract at Villa Park.

“Conor made it clear to the board that he saw the move as an opportunity to further his career and he wanted to pursue the move.

“Under these circumstances, and considering that Conor’s contract was coming to an end in the Summer where he could transfer for free, the Club respected that decision and reluctantly allowed him to move on for a significant fee and sell-on.

“Conor was a hugely popular figure at the Club and we fully appreciate that this news will be met with disappointment from our tremendous supporters.

“The Club firmly shares this sentiment. It is always difficult losing a player of Conor’s footballing and personal qualities, and allowing a player of his calibre to leave the Club was never an easy decision.”