Baggies sign striker Cole following Barnsley exit

Image source, Rex Features

Image caption, Devante Cole scored twice for Barnsley in his one season in the Championship in 2021-22

West Bromwich Albion have signed Devante Cole on a two-year deal following his exit from League One side Barnsley.

The 29-year-old former Manchester City youngster - the son of former Arsenal, Newcastle, Manchester United and England striker Andy Cole - becomes Albion's fifth summer signing.

Cole, who scored 18 League One goals last season, follows the arrival of defenders Paddy McNair and Torbjorn Heggem, midfielder Ousmane Diakite and goalkeeper Joe Wildsmith.

"Devante is an energetic, hardworking striker who also has pace," said Baggies head coach Carlos Corberan.

"He arrives after scoring goals in League One last season and will provide further attacking competition to the squad.鈥

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鈥淚鈥檓 really excited to be back in the Championship," said Cole, who played in the division with Barnsley in 2021-22.

"It was one of my goals to get back to this division as quickly as possible. I鈥檝e got to take my chance when I get it. I鈥檓 confident I can score goals.

鈥淚鈥檓 coming here to Albion off the back of a good season at Barnsley. I鈥檒l bring a lot of hard work to the team and I hope to be a real threat."

Albion, beaten in the Championship play-offs by promoted Southampton in May, start the new season on Saturday, 10 August with a trip to QPR.