Stoke sign N'Zonzi from Blackburn

Stoke have confirmed their third transfer deadline day signing with the capture of Steven N'Zonzi from Blackburn on a four-year contract.

The official news of N'Zonzi's move, for an initial fee of ?3.5million which could eventually rise to ?5million, followed the arrivals of fellow midfielders Charlie Adam and Maurice Edu from Liverpool and Rangers respectively.

France Under-21 international N'Zonzi told stokecityfc.com: "I am very happy to be here and I would like to thank Stoke for giving me this chance because I felt that I was ready for a move and a new challenge.

"There is strong competition for places here at Stoke, but that is part of the game and that can only help to make me an even better player.

"I heard that the club was interested in me a couple of weeks ago, although I think they have been looking at me for a long time."

He added: "It's been a very long day and I didn't know if it was going to happen or not, but I am delighted it has all been sorted out."

Nzonzi began his career in France with Amiens before joining Blackburn in the summer of 2009, and was named Rovers' player of the year in his first season.

Stoke boss Tony Pulis said: "Steven is an outstanding young prospect.

"He has made a big impact in the Premier League since he arrived at Blackburn three years ago and I am sure he will prove to be an excellent addition to our squad. He is the type of player who will endear himself to our supporters."