Republic of Ireland winger James McClean signs for Stoke City from West Bromwich Albion

Former Derry City star and current Irish international James McClean has joined English Championship side Stoke City from West Bromwich Albion in a deal worth up to €6.75 million.

The 59-times-capped Derry native has forged a reputation as one of the most committed Ireland players while donning the green shirt under Giovanni Trappatoni and Martin O’Neill.

Since leaving Derry City, McClean has played for Sunderland and West Brom in the Premier League and for Wigan Athletic in the Championship.

With his departure being mooted from West Brom for quite some time following the Baggies relegation from the Premier League in May, McClean is now officially a Potter.

The deal, which is said to have cost the recently relegated Stoke City an initial £5million for the 29-year-old could rise to a potential £6million sterling with add-ons in a four-year deal.

Speaking upon the completion of the deal, newly installed Stoke City manager Gary Rowett revealed his delight having sealed McClean’s signature for the forthcoming season.

"James is a player I've admired for a long time,” said Rowett.

“He has real quality with his left foot and he's an old-fashioned winger in so much that he retains width and gives teams balance

"Every time I've watched him play I've always been impressed by how hard he worked - he's a team player who shows real desire to help his teammates out and run for the team.

“I've spoken to lads who have played with him before, the likes of Darren Fletcher, and they have all said that he's a great guy to have around the dressing room and he's really, really popular with his teammates."



Stoke City CEO Tony Scholes added: "Gary indicated very early on in our discussions over transfers that James was a player he wanted to bring to the Club and we're pleased to have added a player of genuine quality to our squad.”

Stoke City’s first competitive game of the season will take place against Leeds United at Elland Road on August 6th, where McClean could make his competitive bow.