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West Bromwich Albion’s record signing Salomon Rondon has vowed to thrive off the pressure attached to his £12million price tag.

Rondon sealed his switch from Russian side Zenit St Petersburg yesterday after agreeing personal terms and passing a medical.

The 25-year-old, who hit 20 goals in 37 games last season, joined on a four-year deal to become the Baggies’ fifth signing of the summer.

Brown Ideye struggled to make the impact he and the fans had hoped for after the Baggies splashed out £10million on the Nigerian last summer.

And Rondon is eager not to follow in Ideye’s footsteps.

“Obviously there is pressure because you’re aware that the club has made a big effort to bring me here,” the Venezuela international said.

“As a player that motivates me. I like it and it is a challenge.

(Image: Action Images via Reuters / Jason Cairnduff)

“I come with a desire to do well and help the team in any way I can. I am very happy to be here.

“This is a new opportunity in my career. I can’t wait to be with the other players and to play.

“I know this is a historic club in England and this is a winning team.”

That Albion were willing to break their transfer record showed Rondon just how much he was valued by Tony Pulis.

Likewise, Pulis’ decision to personally contact the player, which ultimately persuaded Rondon to join.

“The club showed a lot of interest in me,” the former Malaga striker added.

“This is important for a player, to know that the manager is counting on me and there are expectations of me.

“He did everything possible so that I am here.

“That leaves me calm and happy because I come with the aim to do things well and play with the aim of achieving the club’s objectives.”

Quite how the two communicated over the phone is another story, with Rondon speaking little English.

But he did however have a message learned in English for his new fans.

“I am very happy and proud to stay here and to play for this great club.”