Stoke City sign Erik Pieters from PSV Eindhoven for 拢3m

Mark Hughes has made his first signing as Stoke manager, with defender Erik Pieters joining from PSV Eindhoven for a fee of 3.6m euros (about 拢3m).

The 24-year-old, capped 17 times by the Netherlands, has signed a four-year deal after moving from the Dutch club.

Hughes said he wanted to build a well-balanced squad over the summer.

"While Erik is predominantly a left-back, he has also played for his country as a central defender, so he gives us other options," he said.

Pieters started his career at FC Utrecht before moving in 2008 to PSV, where he helped the side gain three top-three finishes in the Eredivisie and a runners-up spot last season. PSV also won the KNVB Beker (Dutch Cup) in 2012.

Hughes, 49, was appointed Stoke manager at the end of May, six months after being sacked by QPR.

He replaced fellow Welshman Tony Pulis, who left by mutual consent after seven years in charge at the Britannia Stadium.

Stoke finished 13th in 2012-13, their fifth season in the Premier League.