Midfielder signs four-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

Derby County is delighted to confirm the signing of George Thorne from Premier League West Bromwich Albion.

The 21-year-old midfielder has penned a four-year deal at the iPro Stadium after an undisclosed fee was agreed with the Baggies.

Thorne was identified as one of Derby’s top transfer targets this summer after he impressed during a loan spell with the Rams last season.

He made 12 appearances in total and scored twice, with stunning long range strikes against Doncaster Rovers and Brighton & Hove Albion.

An England youth international at Under 16, 17, 18 and 19 level, Thorne quickly became a fans’ favourite during his temporary spell with the Rams.

Head Coach Steve McClaren said: “We’re really pleased that George Thorne has joined us on a permanent basis.

“I am sure the fans will be delighted to welcome him back and we’re equally pleased that he sees Derby County as the right place for him at this point of his career.

“He was one of the first players I spoke about with our Head of Football Operations Chris Evans when he arrived in November, and we were well aware of his qualities when he joined us on loan in January.

“After being patient in waiting for his chance in the side, he showed what he could do on the pitch. His level of performance was excellent.

“It’s taken a lot of hard work for us to get to this stage but I think it says a lot about where we are at as a Club that we’ve been able to bring someone like George in permanently.

“Credit should go to our President & Chief Executive Sam Rush for the time and effort he has put in to get this transfer completed.”

“I am delighted that after lengthy negotiations, we have agreed a deal with West Bromwich Albion for the transfer of George Thorne,” said President & Chief Executive Sam Rush.

“I think this transaction demonstrates that Derby County is a very competitive Football Club and I would like to particularly thank our Ownership Group, who have provided substantial support to the club to enable this deal to be concluded.

“George joins a young and extremely talented group of players here at Derby and I cannot wait for the season to start and for us to see them all in action.”

Thorne, a graduate of West Bromwich Albion’s Academy, made his first-team debut at 16 years of age during the 2009/10 season.

In total he made 17 appearances for the Premier League outfit and also spent time out on loan at Portsmouth, Peterborough United and Watford, prior to linking up with Derby in January.

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