West Brom seal deal for Craig Gardner
West Brom have completed the signing of former Aston Villa and Birmingham City midfielder Craig Gardner on a free transfer.
The 27-year-old has signed a three-year contract with a further year's option in the club's favour after he was released by Sunderland following three years on Wearside.
He will officially join Albion on July 1 when his Sunderland contract expires.
The Baggies have been tracking Gardner for several years and tried unsuccessfully to sign him in January.
Director of football administration Richard Garlick said: "Craig is someone we have followed for a long time and we are delighted to finally get him.
"We tried to bring him here in the January transfer window but it did not work out.
"We have continued to track him and he has expressed a real desire to be at this club following interest from elsewhere.
"He has the flexibility to play in a few positions across the midfield, scores goals, and can slot in at right-back if required.
"I think he will bring a freshness to our midfield area and his character will suit our dressing room.
"We know we have a big summer ahead of us and it is great to get our first signing done so early."
In total, Gardner has made 232 appearances for his three previous clubs, including 66 as a substitute, scoring 31 times.
He tweeted: "Absolutely buzzing to finally sign for @WBAFCofficial can't wait to get the season under way now #boingboing."
Watch Craig Gardner's first interview as an Albion player below.
