West Brom signs Spain international Pablo Ibanez

Published Jun. 2, 2010 11:17 a.m. ET

foxsports

Premier League newcomer West Bromwich Albion has signed Spain defender Pablo Ibanez on a free transfer.

Ibanez will join on a three-year contract on July 1 when his deal with Spanish side Atletico Madrid expires.

The 28-year-old central defender has played 24 times for Spain and partnered Carles Puyol in central defense at the 2006 World Cup.

He missed out on selection for the 2008 European Championship and was omitted from the squad for this year's World Cup after making just seven league appearances this season.

West Brom manager Roberto Di Matteo says ``he's also played in the Champions League for Atletico and the World Cup for Spain, so the Premier League should hold no fears for him.''