Egypt center-back Ahmed Hegazi has completed a one-year loan move to West Bromwich Albion from Ahly, the English Premier League side announced on their official website on Monday. After passing a medical in England a day ago, Hegazi's deal was finalised before flying to Hong Kong to link up with the rest of his teammates for the Premier League Asia Trophy. No further details were disclosed by the English club other than the option to trigger a permanent switch at the end of the 26-year-old's loan deal. "We're pleased he's here, he's a good addition. He's got good pedigree and has played for some good clubs. Hopefully he'll be a good signing for us," manager Tony Pulis said. "With it being a loan and, if he does well, we've already agreed a final deal. It's really, really good for us." Hegazi joins the Baggies for a season-long loan for a reported fee of one million Euros. The deal includes an option for West Brom to make the switch permanent for the price of million Euros. Albion chairman John Williams, meanwhile, revealed they were tracking the ex-Fiorentina defender since he 'caught their eye' with his superb displays during Egypt's Cup of Nations campaign in January. "We're delighted to add Ahmed to the squad. He caught our eye at the African championships and we've been tracking him ever since," Williams said. Hegazi now kicks off his second overseas adventure following an injury-plagued spell with Serie A side Fiorentina - whom he joined from Ismaily in 2012. He then returned to Egypt three years later, but instead opting for Ismaily's arch-foes Ahly, where he became an integral member in the Cairo giants' backline. The towering defender played a crucial role helping Egypt secure a runner-up finish in last edition's Nations Cup in Gabon, thanks in part to his superb defensive skills throughout the tournament. (For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)
