Stoke City have signed striker John Carew on loan from Aston Villa until the end of the season.
The Norwegian, 31, has slipped down the pecking order at Villa Park this season, and the arrival of Darren Bent from Sunderland for a club record fee earlier this week left his future at the club looking even more bleak.
And now the Potters, who decided against signing Hoffenheim forward Demba Ba after he failed a medical, have handed Carew a Premier League lifeline.
Boss Tony Pulis told the club’s official website: “This is a fantastic signing.
“John's record speaks for itself because he has scored goals at the highest level throughout his career.
“As well as all the experience he has gained at international level, he has played for some top, 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 outstanding pedigree.”