Bristol City have confirmed the signing of Sammie Szmodics from League Two Colchester United.
As exclusively revealed by Bristol Live earlier this week, the Robins have beaten strong competition for the creative attacking midfielder's signature.
The 23-year-old was wanted by the likes of Derby County and Leeds United, but the Robins always seemed in pole position to sign the player from the end of last season.
The Robins were originally linked with a move for Szmodics in January along with Premier League Bournemouth, but no move was forthcoming until now.
Peterborough United of League One had an offer accepted for Szmodics earlier this month but the player turned down the opportunity to meet with the Posh.
With Szmodics under 24 and out of contract at the Essex club, City have paid an undisclosed compensation fee for his services, and he joins on a three-year deal with the option of an extra 12 months.
Szmodics was Colchester's top scorer in each of the last two seasons and Robins CEO Mark Ashton said he was delighted to get the deal over the line.
He told the club website: "I am delighted we have acquired a really talented, attacking and creative player in Sammie Szmodics.
"We are confident this is the right environment for him, where under the guidance of our coaching staff, he will be able to step up. He is still a young player but he is learning all the time and has lots to give to Lee Johnson’s team."
