Derby County have confirmed the permanent signing of Darren Bent after the striker was released by Aston Villa.

The 31-year-old spent part of last season on loan with the Rams, scoring 12 goals in 17 appearances.

Bent, who left Villa on Monday, has penned a two-year contract at the iPro Stadium with the option of a further 12 months.

"Darren Bent is a proven goalscorer and that was something he proved during his loan spell with the club last season," manager Paul Clement told Derby's official website. "He is going to be key in our plans to move forward."

Bent scored 25 goals in 72 games during his time with Aston Villa.