Scotland striker Ross McCormack has joined Aston Villa from Championship rivals Fulham in a 12 million pounds ($16 million, 14.3 million euros) deal, his new club announced on Thursday.

McCormack, who has signed a four-year contract, becomes Villa's joint-second biggest signing after the £24 million capture of Darren Bent in 2011.

Villa were relegated from the Premier League last season and open their second-tier campaign at Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday.

"I'm delighted to bring Ross on board. He's a player with proven track record and plenty of experience in the division," said Villa manager Roberto Di Matteo in comments published on the club website.

McCormack, 29, joined Fulham from Leeds United for £11 million in 2014 and scored 42 times in his two years at Craven Cottage.