Aston Villa sign defender Crespo

London: Aston Villa’s overhauling of their defence after flirting with relegation last season continued on Tuesday with the signing of Spanish defender Jose Angel Crespo from relegated La Liga side Cordoba for a fee reported to be £500,000 (Dh2.86 million).

The 28-year-old - manager Tim Sherwood’s seventh acquisition of the close season which also included defenders Frenchman Jordan Amavi and England international defender Micah Richards - signed a three year contract.

Crespo - who played for Spain at Under-19, 20 and 21 level - has also had a spell in Italy with Bologna, Padova and Verona.