The 37-year-old was initially given permission to speak with Villa but Rovers said they would only allow the move to go through once they had signed a replacement.

They achieved that aim by completing the capture of England international Paul Robinson from Tottenham Hotspur on Friday, and Villa were quick to take advantage.

The move brings to an end Friedel's eight-year association with Rovers, who he joined from Liverpool in 2000.

Blackburn reluctantly gave way to his request to leave in recognition of such long service.

The USA international becomes the third signing at Villa Park this summer, following the arrival of Steve Sidwell from Chelsea and permanent transfer of Curtis Davies from West Bromwich Albion.