Soccer: Stoke have signed Aston Villa striker John Carew on loan until the end of the season.

The Potters made their move for the 31-year-old, who is out of contract in the summer, after Darren Bent's €21 million arrival at Villa Park pushed the Norway international further down the pecking order.

Carew completed his medical yesterday and finalised the paperwork this morning in time to be included in the squad for Saturday's Premier League trip to Fulham.

"This is a fantastic signing," manager Tony Pulis told stokecityfc.co.uk. "John's record speaks for itself because he has scored goals at the highest level throughout his career.

"As well as the experience he has gained at international level he has played for some top clubs across Europe and performed in the Champions League for many seasons, including an appearance in the final for Valencia.

"On top of that he was Aston Villa's leading scorer last season with 17 goals so we have acquired a striker with an outstanding pedigree."