West Bromwich Albion have pulled off the signing of Reading striker Shane Long.
The 24-year old Republic of Ireland international has signed a three-year deal, with an option for a fourth, for an undisclosed fee believed to be around £4.5million which could rise to £6.5m.
The Baggies have beaten off competition from the likes of West Ham United and Leicester City for Long's services and manager Roy Hodgson was delighted to welcome him to The Hawthorns.
"Shane is one of the most talented young strikers outside of the Premier League and I'm delighted to welcome him to the club," said Hodgson.
"He is a goal scorer and a hard-working player who has a very good attitude to the game.
"The great thing about him is that even though he is still only 24, he has six years' worth of experience of Premier League, Championship and International football and has margin for improvement in his game.
"We now hope to see him fulfil that potential over the next few years at West Bromwich Albion. "