Diego Lugano: Luis Suarez convinced me to sign for West Brom

The Uruguay captain was set to train with his team-mates for the first time today after completing his free-transfer switch from Paris Saint-Germain late on Friday.

And the 32-year-old revealed how conversations with fellow Uruguayans Suarez and Gus Poyet helped him make up his mind.

"I chose Albion because it is a club that is developing a lot," said Lugano. "They had a very good season last season and I hope to help the team repeat that or even improve on it. I have some very good friends working and playing in this country and I asked them about Albion.

"What did they say? Well, Suarez told me Liverpool got beaten twice by Albion last season, so that was a very good reference!

"Both he and Poyet said Albion play very good football and are a serious club which wants to accomplish something – and my first impression of the club is amazing.

"The references I got about Albion were just the best. Being in England and playing in the Premier League is just amazing for me. I'm very, very happy."

Lugano became Albion's second new face of the summer after the signing of free agent Nicolas Anelka. The Baggies have also secured defender Goran Popov on loan for another season.

Lugano, who previously played for Fenerbahce and Malaga and has 85 international caps, has signed a two-year contract.

He will compete with Jonas Olsson and reigning player of the season Gareth McAuley for places at the heart of defence.

"I'm very glad to be here," said Lugano, who will wear the No.14 shirt. "In fact, I'm thrilled. Playing in the English Premier League has always been my dream as I think it's the best league in the world."

The Baggies are still to hear from Salomon Kalou over their contract offer despite French media claiming the former Chelsea man could now stay with Lille.

Albion have made no contact with Tottenham over Jermain Defoe, who was linked with the club today.