Beattie completes Stoke move

Stoke have bolstered their striking options with the signing of James Beattie from Sheffield United for a fee that could rise to £3.5m.

Manager Tony Pulis told www.stokecityfc.co.uk: “James is a player who has an absolutely phenomenal goal-scoring record, and I am delighted to have him here.”

Beattie, capped five times by England, enjoyed a productive 18 months at Bramall Lane – scoring 34 goals in 65 appearances, including 12 this season.

Pulis continued: “He has averaged more than a goal every other game for Sheffield and he has a proven record of scoring in the top flight. He is someone I have admired for a very, very long time".

Chief executive Tony Scholes added: “We are absolutely delighted to have fought off competition from other top-flight clubs to secure James’ signature. He is a proven goalscorer with international and Premier League experience - and by signing a player like him, it shows how far this club has progressed.”