West Brom have completed the signing of 18-year-old defender Saul Shotton, who has signed an initial two-year deal with the Baggies.

The centre-back was available on a free after leaving Bury as their crisis situation unfolded back in August and Albion announced on their official site this morning that they had signed the player.

Shotton has agreed a two-year contract with the Championship side, who have an option to extend that by another year.

The teenager, who is the cousin of Middlesbrough's Ryan Shotton, revealed that he was pleased to be joining up with the west Midlands outfit.

"I’m absolutely delighted to have signed for the Club. I came in two weeks ago and I’ve really enjoyed the training and I’m obviously very happy to have signed a deal.

"Being here has definitely put a smile on my face. The lads and the staff have been very welcoming and that’s made me feel extremely settled already. My target now is try and push into the PL2 squad and play as many games as possible."

As he touches on, despite playing six games for the Shakers first-team over the years, Shotton will initially join up with Albion's U23 side.

The verdict

This seems like a smart bit of business from Albion as they have picked up an exciting young player who they think will have a bright future in the game.

The fact he has already played competitive football shows he was highly-rated but Shotton is aware he will have to be patient at his new club.

Now, it's about settling in quickly and showing key figures at the club that he deserves to push on in the years to come.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.