Albion break the bank for Valero

West Bromwich Albion today smashed their record transfer fee after securing the services of 23-year-old former Real Madrid midfielder, Borja Valero, for £4.9 million pound, according to his agent.

Albion first became interested in the Spanish star after he made an impressive substitute performance at The Hawthorns during the Baggies' last pre-season fixture against Mallorca.

Valero's agent, Martan Palades said: "This has gone through and we are very pleased.

"Borja is very happy and is looking forward to playing in the Premier League with West Bromwich Albion.

"We believe this is a great opportunity for him.

"Everything was sorted out this morning and he is very pleased to join the club."

Reports suggested at first that Albion had made an audacious triple bid for Valero along with his team-mates Nunes and Oscar Trejo. Although Argentinean forward Terjo could still find his way to the Hawthorns the Nunes transfer was today quashed as the centre-half signed a new contract.