Liam Bridcutt finally signs for Leeds United

Leeds have finally secured one of their major summer transfer targets following weeks of negotiations for the Sunderland midfielder.

The 27-year-old, who spent much of last season on loan at Elland Road, was set on a return to Leeds having fallen out of favour at Sunderland but complex negotiations over the settlement of his £26,000-a-week deal at the Stadium of Light delayed his arrival.

He and Sunderland shook hands on a settlement last week, however, and despite a further delay in finalising personal terms with Leeds over the weekend, a two-year contract was agreed earlier today.

Bridcutt is expected to be officially unveiled ahead of Tuesday’s Championship clash with Fulham at Elland Road.

“It feels good to be back,” said Bridcutt.

“It’s been a long time coming but now I’m really glad to be here and I’m just looking forward to playing football again.

“I enjoyed myself here last season. The boys made feel very welcome and it’s a club I’ve enjoyed playing for. “I was very happy here and there was a persistence from Leeds this summer which made me feel wanted, and that’s always a good thing.

“The fans were also a key aspect of me signing here again. They were brilliant with me last year – I felt like I connected with Leeds as soon as I came here and it was a team I wanted to play for.

“Every time I run out for Leeds I’ll give 110% and I’ll aim to get better each week. I just can’t wait to get back out onto the pitch.”