The 36-year-old exited the Blues at the end of last season with a number of clubs rumoured to be interested in the former England Captain's signature.

But Steve Bruce's side - who finished 13th in the Championship last year - announced their ambitions for automatic promotion to the Premier League by nabbing the defender on a one year deal.

It means the much-decorated Terry will be joining Socceroos skipper  Mile Jedinak at Villa Park in 2017/18.

Bruce and Club Chairman Tony Xia went to and fro on social media in an unsual unveiling of their latest recruit and then videoed the exhange for posterity.

The gaffer asking: Any news Tony?

Before Xia responded: Captain. Leader. VILLAN!!!!!!!!! 

Terry added: Great to be here boys. Let's get this club back up to the Premier League.

In all, Terry made 717 appearances for Chelsea and picked up his fifth Premier League title with the Blues last seasoon..

He told Villa's website: "It's a club I have admired from afar for many years.

"There are fantastic facilities at Bodymoor Heath, Villa Park is one of the finest stadiums in the country and there's a good group of players here, with an experienced and successful manager in Steve Bruce.

"I can't wait to get started now and look to help the squad achieve something special this season."