West Brom have completed the signing of Preston North End star defender Billy Jones on a free transfer.
The Baggies have moved swiftly to secure the services of the 24-year-old on a three-year deal after he passed a medical.
Jones, who has captained England at Under-20 level, becomes Roy Hodgson's second signing of the summer following the arrival of Gareth McAuley from Ipswich.
Jones, who was out of contract at Deepdale, provided one of the few bright spots for Preston last season as they suffered relegation from the Championship to League One.
A number of clubs were keen to secure his services but the Baggies have won the race with the lure of Premier League football.
Hodgson said: "I'm delighted to welcome Billy to the club.
"We're really pleased we've been able to secure his signature in the face of stiff competition from other clubs for his services.
"It is great that he has chosen our club as the place to further his career and we are looking forward to working with him.
"We have been monitoring Billy's progress for some time and, like the player himself, we believe this is the right moment for him to move up a level.
"He has been a very consistent performer in the Championship for a long period and this is his chance to show he can be as good a player in the Premier League."
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