West Bromwich Albion will feel they cannot fail this season, having just signed Pele. Unfortunately for Tony Mowbray, the Albion manager, it is not the Brazilian, arguably the best player to ever pull on a shirt, but the Southampton midfielder of the same name, who has joined in a £1million deal.

Mowbray, nonetheless, is overjoyed. The 29-year-old has signed a two-year contract with the option of a further year and becomes the eighth signing of the summer for the Midlands club following their failed bid to win promotion back to the Premier League at the first attempt last season.

“We are delighted to have signed a player who caught our eye playing for Southampton last season," Mowbray said. “Pele will bring experience and quality - both in and out of possession - to our squad.

“His athleticism and passing ability will also increase competition for places in midfield.”

Pele signed for Southampton from Belenenses 13 months ago and made 44 appearances for the club.

Reading goalkeeper Graham Stack has joined Championship side Wolves on a month’s loan.

The Irishman, who only returned to the Madejski Stadium in the summer following an extended loan spell at Leeds, will provide back up cover to Wayne Hennessey after Matt Murray was ruled out for up to six months with a knee ligament injury.

“Wolves is a fantastic club with loads of potential and this is a big season for them,” Stack said.