Norwich City have completed the signing of experienced Republic of Ireland international defender Shane Duffy.
The 31-year-old was officially unveiled as a Norwich player on Friday after extensive reports linking him with a move to Carrow Road.
Duffy has joined City on a free transfer, effective July 1, following his release from Premier League side Fulham and has penned a three-year deal at the club.
He follows Ashley Barnes and Jack Stacey in arriving at the club as they continue their revamp of the squad following a disappointing Championship campaign that saw them finish 13th in the table.
Duffy made five appearances for the Cottagers last season after joining on loan from Brighton and Hove Albion last summer.
That move was made permanent in January as Fulham required an extra loan slot to sign Cedric from Arsenal.
The form of Tim Ream, Issa Diop and Tosin Adarabioyo limited Duffy’s game time significantly.
Duffy played a key role in Brighton’s promotion to the Premier League and subsequent stability under Chris Hughton and Graham Potter alongside Lewis Dunk.
He made 150 appearances for the south coast club and has experience in both the Premier League and the Championship during his career.
He has also had spells at Blackburn, Celtic, Everton, Yeovil, Burnley and Scunthorpe and has played 132 Championship games.
After putting pen to paper on his contract, Duffy told City's official channels why he is relishing the prospect of playing for the club.
"As soon as I first heard about it, I've been excited," Duffy said. "I spoke with the head coach, and some people at the club, and they've really made me excited about this opportunity.
"I know it's a great club, a lot of Irish connection as well with a few players here and they speak very highly about the club.
"I'm ready for a new chapter in my career. And I'm excited to help the team get back to the Premier League."
Head coach David Wagner is confident that Norwich will extract the best out of Duffy, believing his standing in the game will shore up their backline.
“We’re delighted to welcome Shane to the club," he said. "He is a player with a vast amount of experience, both domestically and on the international stage.
“I’m confident that he’ll be a great fit for our squad and brings not only the on-field qualities that we have been looking for, but leadership and desire to help drive our club forward.
“From my conversations with Shane, his vision was clear. You can feel that determination and hunger to play and win football games.
“I’m really looking forward to welcoming him to our group.”
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