Stoke sign striker Jon Walters from Ipswich for £2.75m

Walters was left out of the side for Ipswich's last game

Stoke have signed Jon Walters from Ipswich for an initial fee of £2.75m, which could rise to £3.25m.

The 26-year-old, who can play as a striker or right winger, has agreed a four-year contract with the Potters.

"I've been looking to bring in more goals - Jon certainly fits the bill," said Stoke manager Tony Pulis.

"Over the last three years he's been the Championship's outstanding performer. I'm confident he can make the same impact on the Premier League."

The move comes after Walters' desire to leave Portman Road prompted Ipswich manager Roy Keane to remove him as captain, drop him from the team and declare that Walters would never play for the team again while he remained in charge.

606: DEBATE £3 million for a player who cost us 100k is not a bad deal for us. I hope he shows a better attitude for you guys now he has got his way! Keano to stay

The falling-out prompted QPR to make an approach for the player but, after being left out for Saturday's 1-1 draw against Burnley, Walters opted to make the step up to the Premier League.

Walters, a Republic of Ireland B international, was a trainee at Blackburn, before having spells at Bolton, Hull, Wrexham and Chester prior to joining Ipswich in 2007.

He leaves the Portman Road club despite having another two years to run on his contract.

Keane had previously described Walters, who scored eight goals in the Championship last season, as the the second-best player in the Championship.

He becomes the second new striker to join Stoke in a week after the arrival of £8m club record-signing Kenwyne Jones from Sunderland on 12 August.

As part of the deal Town will pay a financial sum to Chester City's receivers.

Walters' move from the now defunct club to Ipswich in 2007 included a sell-on clause and both parties have agreed on a mutual fee.