Robbie Brady has finally completed his transfer to Burnley.
Brady had been linked with a return to the Premier League since being relegated with Norwich City last season, and impressing at Euro 2016 for the Republic of Ireland.
After months of speculation, a move failed to materialise last summer and the 25-year-old remained in the Championship with Norwich.
However, in the final hours of deadline day, Brady joined Burnley for a club record fee worth £13m.
BREAKING: We are delighted to announce the club record signing of Robbie Brady from @CanariesFC on a three-and-a-half year deal. pic.twitter.com/CRiukqkPm8
— Burnley FC (@BurnleyOfficial) January 31, 2017
The transfer fee breaks Burnley’s previous record, when they paid Derby County £10.5m for Jeff Hendrick last summer. The former St Kevin’s Boys pair are reunited in the Premier League after playing together at schoolboy level and for Ireland.
Their fellow Dubliner Stephen Ward is also at the club.
Brady spoke briefly about the move on Tuesday night, saying it was a “great move” and that he wants to repay the faith of the club for signing him.
Tomorrow, you can hear more from our new club record signing, Robbie Brady… pic.twitter.com/oB4ykIZICZ
— Burnley FC (@BurnleyOfficial) January 31, 2017
The club then revealed that Brady will wear number 12, the same squad number he had at Norwich.
Still awake, Clarets fans?
Then let's confirm that new club record signing Robbie Brady will wear this shirt at Turf Moor: pic.twitter.com/YSPxIwUb0z— Burnley FC (@BurnleyOfficial) January 31, 2017
Following Burnley’s 1-0 victory against Leicester City, Sean Dyche told the club’s official website how pleased he was with the signing of Brady, and Ashley Westwood from Aston Villa.
“He’s a good technician and keeps the ball well, so I think he’s a good one for us,” he said:
“He’s got to earn the right, as has Robbie. He is a different type, he can play in a couple of different positions and was hungry with a desire to be back in the Premier League and we want him to take on that challenge.
“It’s been a tough deal to get through, that one, and we’re delighted to have him and Ashley here.
“They both have different strengths to them, and they add to the group – and I mean that because I believe in the group.”
