Ross Barkley has left Luton Town to sign for Aston Villa.

The 30-year-old midfielder will move back to Villa Park, having previously played for the Birmingham-based club on loan in the 2020/21 season.

Barkley has signed a deal of undisclosed length with the Villains, who will be competing in the Champions League next season.

Former Everton and Chelsea man Barkley had joined Luton a year ago after being released by French side Nice. He made 37 appearances for Luton in all competitions, scoring five goals and contributing six assists.

For his work, Barkley won the Loyal Luton and Luton Town Supporter’s Trust Player of the Year prizes.

Before joining Luton, Barkley had made 33 international appearances for the England team.

In a goodbye message on his social media, Barkley thanked Luton for his time with the club.

He said, “Thank you Luton Town.

“I’m extremely grateful to Rob & his staff for believing in me & giving me the opportunity to play for such a special football club.

“I can’t thank the fans enough for the support you have shown me. I’ll genuinely miss playing at the Kenny with that atmosphere you create!

“I wish you all the very best in the future, fingers crossed you bounce straight back!”

Luton Town CEO Gary Sweet told the club’s official website that he pleased with Barkley for joining the club and wished him well.

He said, “To have a player of Ross Barkley’s stature and class grace the Kenilworth Road pitch has been an absolute joy to watch for all of us Luton Town supporters.

“To be able to give him a home for a season and a haven for the rest of his career – he knows he can always lean on us – is an absolute win-win situation for both parties.

“Ross came here and bought into everything that Luton Town is about. He’s loved his time at the club and of course, every single one of us would choose Champions League football over the Championship, so no-one should ever question his decision to want to rejoin Aston Villa.

“We thank him for his service to the football club in the short time he has been here, and wish him every success at Villa Park and in the future.”