91�ȱ�

Walsall have signed defender Rico Browne after he impressed during a trial with the League Two club.

The 20-year-old joins the Saddlers after a compensation package was agreed with Birmingham City, where his contract recently expired.

He has agreed a one-year deal with the option of an additional year.

As Brown is under 23 and was, having come through their youth system, he was unable to move on a free transfer.

In such cases, a compensation fee is set by a tribunal unless the two clubs reach an agreement.

“I’m delighted to be here,” Browne

“The plans the head coach has for the rest of the season suited what I’ve been looking for and I’ve felt really comfortable since I came in."

Browne, who did not make a first-team appearance for Birmingham, was on loan at National League North side Rushall Olympic last season.

Walsall head coach Mat Sadler said: “With the injuries that we had, it’s a really good opportunity for an extra player to be with us and somebody who we think can improve with us.

“I didn’t just want to bring anybody in, I wanted to bring somebody in who’s got a real chance of getting better, improving and will work extremely hard, so I’m delighted to bring Rico in and we look forward to working together.”