Football
Richard Jolly, ESPN.com writer 10y

West Brom wrap up Lescott signing

Joleon Lescott has joined West Bromwich Albion on a free transfer, becoming new head coach Alan Irvine's first signing.

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The former England defender, released by Manchester City after five years at the Etihad Stadium, has agreed a two-year deal with an option to stay at The Hawthorns for a third.

Lescott, 31 -- who cost City 22 million pounds in 2009 -- also attracted an offer from Hull and had reportedly interested Stoke and clubs in Turkey.

Irvine worked with Lescott during his days as Everton's assistant manager, and told West Brom's official website: "I'm delighted we've been able to agree a deal with Joleon.

"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 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."

Albion had wanted to sign another central defender after releasing Uruguay captain Diego Lugano, and Irvine added: "It's vitally important 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."

The Baggies have now made two signings this summer with Sunderland midfielder Craig Gardner also arriving on a free transfer in a deal tied up before Irvine's appointment last weekend.

And a third signing could be in prospect, with Irvine hoping to bring City's Jack Rodwell to the Midlands.

He worked with the 23-year-old midfielder at Goodison Park but said financial reasons could prevent a deal from being reached.

"Manchester City bought him for a huge amount of money, so I can't imagine he would be someone available for a small fee," he said.

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