West Brom finalise surprise first summer signing From Southend United as second imminent

West Bromwich Albion have confirmed their first signing of the summer transfer window – and it’s not the Norwegian defender.

The Baggies have announced the acquisition of midfielder Ousmane Diakite from Austrian Bundesliga side TSV Hartberg.

The 23-year-old, who played 34 times last season and scored two goals, has signed a two-year contract with the club option for a further 12 months.

Eight times a Mali Under-20 international, Diakite is hopeful of one day breaking into his nation’s senior team. Moving to England should help progress his chances and he’s excited to get going at The Hawthorns.

“I am delighted to be joining such a massive club,” Diakite told West Brom’s official website.

“It’s always been an ambition of mine to play in England and I just can’t wait to get started. I’m determined to succeed here and I will do everything I can to improve every single day.”

Albion head coach Carlos Corberan added: “Ousmane is a young, talented midfielder with the potential to continue his growth as a player in England.

“His personality on the ball will help us transition from defence to attack.

“He has experience abroad in Austria’s top league and has good physical attributes which will help him to adapt to the high demands of the Championship.”

West Brom are expected to follow up the acquisition of Diakite with the signing of IF Brommapojkarna star Tobjorn Heggem. The defender has passed a medical following an agreement to be signed on a permanent deal.

Predominantly a centre-half but regularly utilised at left-back, the Norwegian is set to offer Carlos Corberan terrific versatilty at the back. It’s a clever move as Heggem, whose contract at Brommapojkarna was set to expire in December, can directly replace the outgoing Erik Pieters.