Joleon Lescott completes move to West Brom

Joleon Lescott has completed his move to West Brom on a free transfer.

The England international, who will officially become a West Brom player on July 1 when his contract at Manchester City expires, has signed a two-year deal with the option of a third, which will be performance related.

Lescott, who was linked with a host of clubs, both in England and Europe, underwent a medical on Thursday before finalising the move which will bring his five-year stay at the Etihad Stadium to an end.

New Baggies head coach Alan Irvine worked with Lescott during his time at Everton and he is looking forward to being reunited with the centre-half.

“I’m delighted we’ve been able to agree a deal with Joleon,” said Irvine.

“He’s an England international and a proven Premier League player, who has been at the top level for a number of years.

“He’s got Premier League and cup medals to his name and has had a fantastic career so far.

“When we realised he was available and there was a realistic chance of getting him here we started to work very hard on it.

“Full credit to the board and everyone at the club for getting this done as quickly and effectively as they did.

“I know Joleon and the type of personality and character he is, in addition to knowing what he can do as a player.

“He’s a great professional and he will add to a number of very good professionals who are already in the squad.

“It’s vitally important for me that we don’t go into a Premier League season with only three centre-backs at senior level – and I’m delighted with the four proven centre-backs we now have.

“Nobody is guaranteed a place in the team; I have to pick the best two, or sometimes we might play with a three, and I have to work out the ones who can do the best job in any particular game.”