Luton Town have confirmed the signing of out-of-contract Sheffield United defender, Martin Cranie when his deal with the Blades expires at the end of this month. 

Cranie made 15 appearances for Chris Wilder's side last season, as they won promotion back into the Premier League.

The 32-year-old played in some crucial games towards the end of their promotion-winning season, and it certainly came as a surprise to some of the Bramall Lane faithful to see the club opt to not offer him a new contract.

Luton won promotion themselves recently, as they were crowned League One champions after a hugely impressive league campaign.

The Hatters are evidently keen to add to their squad ahead of the new season, and they're getting a vastly experienced defender in Cranie, that's for sure.

Speaking in an interview with the club's official website, Cranie issued his thoughts after signing for the Hatters, and is hopeful of passing his experience on to aid the development of the younger members of the Luton squad.

"I’m delighted to be here. I’ve spoken to the manager a few times over the summer and I’m glad we finally got it over the line and I’m here now."

"From my point of view I know what it takes to get out of the division and I know what it’s about, so hopefully me coming in with a bit more experience than maybe some of the boys here, I can pass than on and help the younger lads."

Luton will be hoping to get off to a winning start in the Championship, when they host Jonathan Woodgate's Middlesbrough on the opening day of the season.

The Verdict: 

What a fantastic bit of business this is by the Hatters.

Cranie played his part in Sheffield United's promotion to the Premier League last season, and I was surprised to see the Blades not renew his deal at the club.

It's somewhat of a coup for Luton to come to an agreement to sign him, as I think he could be playing for a team that will challenge for promotion from the Championship again this season.