Soccer

Darren Fletcher signs 2½-year deal with West Brom

Midfielder leaves Manchester United after failing to break into Van Gaal’s first XI

Darren Fletcher played 342 times for United but United told him earlier this month that he could leave on a free transfer. Photograph:Martin Rickett/PA Wire
Darren Fletcher played 342 times for United but United told him earlier this month that he could leave on a free transfer. Photograph:Martin Rickett/PA Wire
Tue Feb 03 2015 - 00:26

West Brom have announced the signing of midfielder Darren Fletcher from Manchester United on a 2½-year contract.

Fletcher had been set to join West Ham last Friday, but talks broke down and West Brom stepped in to take the 31-year-old off United’s hands.

Fletcher reported to United's team hotel in Manchester on deadline day, where the squad are staying ahead of their FA Cup replay against Cambridge, but he quickly left after the Baggies came calling.

The 31-year-old drove to the Midlands on Monday evening for a medical, which he is understood to have passed.

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Fletcher played 342 times for United, but his experience has not been able to earn him a place in Louis van Gaal’s starting XI this term. United told their vice-captain earlier this month that he could leave on a free transfer.