Aston Villa: Hitzlsperger to join Stuttgart

Aston Villa midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger has agreed to sign for Stuttgart in the summer. Hitzlsperger is out of contract at Villa Park at the end of the season and has been unable to concur on an extension with the Premiership club. The Germany international had been hesitant about committing his future to the club due to fears about claiming a regular place in the starting line-up. The 22-year-old, who turns 23 on Tuesday, is anxious to be part of Jurgen Klinsmann's squad with the 2006 World Cup being staged on German soil. To that end, Hitzlsperger has decided to turn his back on the club who gave him his break in professional football.

Stuttgart on Wednesday confirmed the signing of Aston Villa midfielder Thomas Hitzlsperger. Germany international Hitzlsperger has agreed terms on a two-year deal, with the option of a further 12 months, and will join Stuttgart on a free transfer in the summer after failing to negotiate a new deal at Villa Park.