Baggies add Scharner on free transfer

West Bromwich, England (Sports Network) - West Bromwich announced the signing of Paul Scharner on a two-year contract on Monday.

The 30-year-old Scharner joined on a free transfer after leaving Wigan at the end of last season, and Baggies boss Roberto Di Matteo believes that he will bring valuable Premiership experience to his newly-promoted side.

"I'm delighted to welcome Paul to the club," Di Matteo told the official West Brom website. "He is exactly the type of player we've been looking to bring in because he is a proven Premier League player, having performed consistently well for the past four-and-a-half years.

"Paul is a powerful, competitive player who is good on the ball, excellent in both boxes, can play in numerous positions and also chips in with goals."

Scharner can play in defense or as a midfielder, and he reportedly received interest from Aston Villa, Liverpool and Sunderland.