Seagulls snap up Argentine striker

Albion have ended their arduous hunt for a target man, with Almeria centre-forward Leonardo Ulloa signing a four-and-a-half deal at the Amex.

Gus Poyet and his scouting staff had reportedly been keeping tabs on the 26-year-old, nicknamed 'Cyclone', for a number of seasons - and today they finally secured their man, bolstering the Seagulls' forward line in time for a 2013 promotion push.

Although Ulloa has officially obtained dual nationality having received a Spanish passport, he still requires international clearance before he can take to the field and pull on the stripes - as he targets a debut at Birmingham this coming weekend.

Speaking to seagulls.co.uk, Poyet said of the signing, "Leo is that striker we have been looking to add for some time. He will complement our existing strikers, enjoy playing with our wingers and creative players.

"He's a typical number nine box player; he's good in the air, he will hold the ball up and he has good movement around the box when the ball is wide.

"He will suit the way we play, fit in well to our style and identity and I am sure he will make us a stronger team."

Leo started his career in his home nation of Argentina, but made his name after moving to Spain, notching roughly a goal every other game during the course of 5 years at Castellón and Almeria - which included a 28-goal campaign at the latter, topping the Segunda Division scoring charts in 2011/12.

The Argus is reporting that the fee is believed to be in the region of £2m. It remains to be seen whether that is due to be offset by any major outgoings.

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