ALBION’s signing of Grzegorz Krychowiak has ended a two-year quest by Head Coach Tony Pulis to work with the Poland international.
The 27-year-old midfielder joined up with the Baggies on a year-long loan from French giants Paris Saint Germain - subject to international clearance - just hours after another player of long-standing interest to Pulis, Kieran Gibbs, agreed a four-year contract.
That made it a day of double satisfaction for Pulis as he added considerable new qualities to his first-team squad for this season's Premier League campaign.
"I think it's a coup for the club and I couldn't be more pleased to get the chance to work with Grzegorz," said Pulis.
"He's an excellent player and one who is going to add competition to our midfield. As well as being a top player, he's also a winner - as his record shows. And that's very important too.
"He has won two Europa Leagues and domestic honours and has played for some top clubs, including Sevilla and PSG."
And his recruitment is a reward for Pulis's persistence.
"I first tried to get him two years ago and it didn't work out," he explained, "and I've been trying to get him every window since!
"I kept being told it wouldn't happen but I am really, really pleased that we have persuaded him to come to us.
"He's strong and technically a very good player. I think our supporters will enjoy watching him play."