England international defender Joleon Lescott has signed a two-year contract after completing a free transfer from Manchester City.
The former Everton defender passed a medical at The Hawthorns this morning and will officially join on a Bosman transfer at the start of July.
Lescott becomes new head coach Alan Irvine’s first signing in charge.
The Scot worked with the 31-year-old during their time together at Everton and is delighted to secure his services.
“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.”
Lescott has made 26 appearances for his country and becomes Albion’s second summer signing after Craig Gardner also joined on a Bosman.
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