Stoke City Football Club are delighted to announce the signing of Senegalese midfielder Salif Diao.

The 30-year old has agreed a deal which will keep him at the Britannia Stadium until at least the summer of 2009.

Diao, formerly of Liverpool, made 27 appearances for the Potters last season, and immediately warmed to the hearts of the City faithful by producing a number of outstanding performances as the side chased promotion to the top flight.

Despite the transfer window currently being closed, the deal to sign Diao was able to be completed as the midfielder was a free agent.

Confirming the deal Chief Executive Tony Scholes said, "I am absolutely delighted we have managed to agree a deal to sign Salif.

"As supporters know, he has been Tony Pulis' top target for some months.

"He was an integral part of our squad last season, and we are delighted to have him back."

Boss Tony Pulis added: "Salif is a fantastic player, and I am obviously very, very happy to have him back.

"He is the sort of player that this Football Club needs to push on, and we have shown our ambition by bringing him here."

Salif will continue to wear the number 18 shirt for his second spell with the club.

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