West Brom transfer news: Jay Rodriguez unveiled as first summer signing
Albion have signed England striker Jay Rodriguez from Southampton for an undisclosed fee, it has been confirmed.
In what has the potential to be a club record deal, it is understood Rodriguez has moved to The Hawthorns for an initial £12million - which could rise to £15million subject to performance related clauses.
That would surpass the £13million the Baggies paid Tottenham to land Nacer Chadli in August 2016.
Rodriguez’s arrival ends Tony Pulis’ long standing pursuit of the 27-year-old.
The Albion boss was on the verge of signing the player on loan last summer before Saints pulled the plug on a deal when he scored against Sunderland.
Pulis also tried again to sign Rodriguez in January.
In his five years at Southampton, Rodriguez struggled with injuries but still scored 32 goals in 126 appearances.
It is believed Pulis was particularly keen to land the former Burnley man for his versatility – with Rodriguez able to play as a lone striker and also out wide.
The club revealed the signing initially in a tongue-in-cheek tweet to a fan who was asking when the first summer signing would be. It features a short clip from Rodriguez.
Rodriguez said: "After one or two 'near misses' I'm absolutely buzzing to be here.
"The most important thing for any player is to be wanted – and Tony Pulis and Albion have made it clear just how much they have wanted me to join. That's fantastic for any footballer to hear.
"I'm genuinely delighted to be joining a club of Albion's stature. The team is full of top players and it's pretty clear that they are also a great set of lads."
Chairman John Williams added: "I am delighted to welcome Jay to The Hawthorns. We tried to sign him during the previous two windows and it's third time 'deal done.' Our persistence has been rewarded.
"Jay is a proven Premier League striker, an England international and a player who will give Tony more attacking options."
