Cardiff City have completed the signing of centre-half Krystian Bielik from Championship rivals West Bromwich Albion on a permanent deal. Bielik has signed a three-year contract with the Bluebirds and joined for an undisclosed fee. "I'm very excited, I'm finally here and I couldn't be happier," he told the club's official website.
"I'm looking forward to starting with the team as soon as possible and focusing on the first game." The 28-year-old made 17 Championship appearances for the Baggies last season as they finished 21st, narrowly avoiding relegation to League One. The experienced defender - who can also operate as a defensive midfielder - joined Arsenal from Legia Warsaw in 2015 and had spells with Birmingham City, Walsall, Charlton Athletic and Derby County prior to joining West Brom last summer. Bielik is Cardiff's fourth senior summer recruit following the arrivals of goalkeeper Nathan Trott, midfielder Jack Moylan and left-back Calum Scanlon, who has returned to the Welsh capital on loan from Liverpool.
"I've played a few times against Cardiff City, and it's never been an easy place to come to," Bielik added. "It's always got a great atmosphere, so it will be a pleasure to be here playing for this club. "I'm ready, fit and healthy, and can't wait to start with the team tomorrow and prepare for the big game on Saturday." Poland international Bielik is a welcome addition for the Bluebirds, who are currently without a fit central defender in their ranks.
Will Fish, Dylan Lawlor, Calum Chambers and Gabriel Osho are all currently injured, although the latter is thought to be close to a return to action. The Bluebirds gave a debut to 15-year-old defender Noah Anyadike - who became the youngest player in EFL Cup history - during their 2-1 loss against Norwich City in the second round on Tuesday night. Bielik is in contention to make his Cardiff debut when they host Chris Wilder's Sheffield United on Saturday ( ).
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