West Brom finalise surprise first summer signing as second imminent

West Bromwich Albion have announced their first signing of the summer transfer window, and it is not the

Norwegian defender.

The Baggies have announced the signing of midfielder Ousmane Diakite from Austrian Bundesliga club TSV

Hartberg.

The 23-year-old, who appeared in 34 games and scored two goals last season, has signed a two-year contract with a

12-month extension option.

Diakite, who has represented Mali at Under-20 level eight times, hopes to one day play for his country’s senior team.

Moving to England could help advance his chances, and he is thrilled to get started at The Hawthorns.

“I am delighted to be joining such a massive club,” Diakite told West Brom’s official website.”I’ve always wanted to

play in England, and I’m excited to get started. I’m motivated to succeed here, and I’ll do everything I can to improve

each day.”

Albion’s head coach, Carlos Corberan, added: “Ousmane is a young, gifted midfielder with the potential to continue

his progress as a player in England.

“His personality on the ball will aid us in transitioning from defense to attack.

“He has experience abroad in Austria’s top league and has good physical attributes which will help him to adapt to

the high demands of the Championship.”

West Brom are poised to recruit Tobjorn Heggem from IF Brommapojkarna, after the acquisition of Diakite. The

defender has passed a physical following an agreement to sign a permanent contract.

The Norwegian, who plays mostly as a centre-back but is also frequently used as a left-back, is expected to provide

Carlos Corberan with exceptional defensive versatility. It’s a smart decision because Heggem, whose contract with

Brommapojkarna was supposed to end in December, can directly replace the departing Erik Pieters.

BREAKING:West Brom finalise surprise first summer signing as second imminent