Fabian Delph has left Aston Villa to join Manchester City in an £8 million deal after a dramatic change of heart.

City looked set to sign the England midfielder last week but Delph appeared to commit his future to Villa as the move broke down after speaking with the Manchester club. He has changed his mind less than a week later to agree a five-year contract with Manuel Pellegrini's side that he signed on Friday afternoon.

He joins fellow Englishman Raheem Sterling at City after his £49 million transfer from Liverpool was finalised on Wednesday.

"Leaving Aston Villa football club is the hardest decision I have ever had to make," he said. "I have had some amazing times and made great friends during my time at the club. I will always be thankful to them for giving me the opportunity to play in the Premier League.

"When I was made captain of Villa it was a huge honour for me and I took the responsibility incredibly seriously. I signed a new contract last season with the view of staying at the club for the duration of the deal and never with the intention of leaving a year later.

"My decision to stay initially was purely based on the emotion and feelings that I hold for the club and the people there rather than looking at the football opportunity that had been placed in front of me."

"I have been immensely proud to captain such a great club and want to thank everyone at Aston Villa - most importantly the fans - for the amazing support they have shown me during my time there. "

Delph, 25, completed the formalities of his medical on Friday, and will fly to Australia over the weekend to join his new team-mates for pre-season matches and training.

 He will wear the number 18 shirt for his new club.

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