Villa snap up defender Cissokho

Aston Villa have announced the signing of French defender Aly Cissokho from Valencia, subject to international clearance.

The 26-year-old left-back, who spent last season on loan at Liverpool, has agreed a four-year deal with Paul Lambert’s side.

Cissokho, who has won one cap for France, joined Liverpool on a season-long loan last August, but made only 15 league appearances for Brendan Rodgers’ side before returning to Valencia.

The full-back moved to the Spanish club from Lyon in 2012, while he has also played for Porto, Vitoria Setebal and Gueugnon, where he began his senior career.

Cissokho joins the likes of Kieran Richardson, Joe Cole and Philippe Senderos as new arrivals at Villa Park this summer.